LA Midweek Edition -- October 21 -- 23, 2015

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LOS ANGELES

M I D W E E K

EDITION

www.asianjournal.com www.ajdigitaledition.com

October 21-23, 2015

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Volume 25 - No. 82 • 3 Sections - 20 Pages

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ESCOBAR

AJPress

TYPHOON Koppu is sweeping slowly across the northern part of the Philippines, destroying provinces and forcing thousands to flee from their homes. The tropical cyclone, known as typhoon ‘Lando’ in the Philippines, is over 500-kilometers in diameter. As of Tuesday evening, Oct. 20, it was crawling northeast towards the Calayan and Babuyan islands. KFGGC<;% 8dXe YiXm\j jkife^ n`e[j Xj Kpg_ffe ĂˆCXe[fÉ jn\\gj XZifjj 9X^l`f :`kp# ZXlj`e^ 9lie_Xd CXb\ kf fm\iĂ•fn Xe[ ki\\j kf ]Xcc# YcfZb`e^ X ifX[ The state weather bureau PAGASA isXk 9lie_Xd GXib fe Dfe[Xp# FZk% (0% @ehl`i\i%e\k g_fkf Yp <M <jg`i`kl

DATELINE

USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

‘US challenging excessive maritime claims on regular basis’ WASHINGTON – The United States is preparing to conduct freedom of navigation operations to “challenge excessive maritime claims on a regular basis around the world,� State Department spokesman Mark Toner said. He said these operations were not targeted at any individual country but were to be made in accordance with inJkXk\ ;\gXikd\ek jgfb\jdXe ternational law and DXib Kfe\i% nnn%pflklY\%Zfd

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Obama to leave US troops in Afghanistan past his term Abandoning promise to end Middle East wars he inherited

FACING increasing pressure both at home and abroad, President Barack Obama has made his decision regarding the state of American troops in Afghanistan. Obama on Thursday, Oct. 15, pledged to keep US troops in the region throughout the end of his presidential term, halting initial plans for withdrawal and abandoning his often-stated promise to end the US’s longest war before he leaves office. Under the new plan, the United States will keep 9,800 service members in Afghanistan through most of 2016. The number of troops would be reduced to 5,500 beginning in 2017, assuming the next president stays on the same course, said the Los Angeles Times. White House aides said Obama was confronted daily with problems caused by the collapse of US-trained security forces in Iraq, where he has been forced to send additional troops and warplanes to combat the growing militants in the Islamic State, and did not want to risk a similar scenario in Afghanistan. “As your commander in chief, I believe this mission is vital to our national security interests in preventing terrorist attacks against our

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sued an advisory at 11pm , saying that the storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (kph) and heavy gusts of up to 80 kph, according to ABS-CBN News. A severe weather bulletin (No. 23) issued by the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Tuesday, Oct. 20 reported that Koppu has only “weakened slightly.� The storm’s center point is about 90 kilometers, West of Calayan, Cagayan (north of mainland Luzon), with

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Roxas, Binay asked to stop allies on Poe’s disqualification case by DJ

YAP AND LEILA B. SALAVERRIA Inquirer.net

IF THEY really think Sen. Grace Poe is a Filipino, presidential candidates Mar Roxas and Jejomar “Jojo� Binay should tell their allies and supporters to stop making an issue out of her citizenship, Sen. Francis Escudero said Tuesday, Oct. 20. Escudero, Poe’s running mate in next year’s presidential election, issued a statement after former Sen. Richard Gordon disclosed in a television interview Tuesday that members of Roxas’ Liberal Party (LP) and Binay’s United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) had asked him to join an effort to take Poe out of the 2016 presidential race. “It’s getting harder and harder to give the leaders of [the] LP and [the] UNA the benefit of the doubt,

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DFA exec: 1.3 M overseas voters a ‘game-changer’ in 2016 polls by ARIES JOSEPH

Inquirer.net

HEGINA

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced on Monday, Oct. 19 that it has reached the 1.3 million mark of registered overseas voters for the 2016 elections. In a statement, Office of Civilian

Security and Consular Concerns Undersecretary Rafael E. Seguis said that a total 1, 301, 598 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) became registered voters as of October 15, 2015. Seguis said that if 1.3 million overseas voters could influence at least three family members, their sector could bring about 5.2 mil-

MAUREEN Philstar.com

QUISMUNDO Inquirer.net

lion votes to their preferred candidates. “Since overseas Filipinos are considered to be their family’s bread winners, it is not a stretch to surmise that each overseas Filipino can influence the vote of at least three family members. Thus, the 1.3 million active registered over-

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SIMEON

MANILA – The Philippines has expressed its intention to join the freshly-minted Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement once it opens its doors to new members. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the recently-concluded TPP agreement is a timely and welcome development for the country as it is a significant component of the international trade strategy the Philippines has been implementing the past four years. “Even before the TPP was concluded, the Philippine government had already undertaken technical consultations with six out of the 12 TPP countries, and the talks will continue,� DTI Undersecretary Adrian Cristobal said. The TPP is a landmark agreement that reduces tariffs, lowers the cost of trade, and sets new and high standards for global trade while addressing next-generation is-

by TARRA

THE SUPREME Court has stopped the plunder trial of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for 30 days, ordering the antigraft court to comment on her petition questioning court resolutions that denied her right to seek a ruling on the sufficiency of evidence against her. In an en banc session on Tuesday, Oct. 20, the high court issued a 30-day status quo ante order on proceedings against Arroyo, now a Pampanga representative who has been detained at the Veterans Memorial Center in Quezon City since Oct. 4, 2012 for allegedly misusing P365.997 million of the Philippine

Philippines intent on joining TPP by LOUISE

Supreme Court stops Arroyo plunder trial

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sues. It is envisioned to promote economic growth, create jobs, raise living standards, reduce poverty, promote good governance and enhance labor and environmental protections among its member countries. To become part of the TPP, the Philippines will need an endorsement from the 12 parties of the trade agreement consisting of Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam.

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

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maximum sustained winds of 75 kph near the center and gusts up to 90 kph. It has been labeled from a category 5 to category 1 storm, reports said. The NDRRMC placed Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Apayao, Abra, Batanes, and Northern Cagayan (including Calayan and the Babuyan islands) under public storm signal number 2 (winds of 61-120 kph). La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, Nueva Vizcaya, Ifugao, Mt. Province, Isabela, Kalinga, and the rest of Cagayan regions were placed under public storm signal 1 (winds of 30-60 kph). The estimated rainfall amount >FM<IED<EK I<JGFEJ<% Gi\j`[\ek 9\e`^ef J% 8hl`ef @@@ gi\j`[\j fm\i k_\ EXk`feXc ;`jXjk\i I`jb I\[lZk`fe Xe[ DXeX^\d\ek :fleZ`c ranges from “moderate to heavy, d\\k`e^ fe k_\ ^fm\ied\ekËj gi\$[`jXjk\i i\X[`e\jj gi\gXiXk`fe ]fi k_\ `dgXZk f] Kpg_ffe CXe[f Xk k_\ Gi\j`[\ekËj ?Xcc `e DXcXZX Xe^ to at times intense” within the diGXcXZ\% DXcXZX Xe^ g_fkf Yp 9\e_li 8iZXpXe ameter of the storm. In the last 72 hours, Baguio City reported 1,059 millimeters rainfall as of Tuesday, according don, who is seeking a Senate seat a clear and unquestionable man- to the UK Met Office. G8>< 8( t Several towns in Aurora provgiven the revelations of Senator as an independent on Poe’s tick- date,” Quimbo said, using Presiince have been cut off from civiet, said members of the LP and dent Aquino’s nickname. Gordon,” Escudero said. “When your leaders say one the UNA had approached him Quimbo said the LP-led coali- lization due to major floods and thing and do another, it does not and asked him to file a disquali- tion had nothing to do with the landslides. The entire town of San Antonio in central Luzon speak well of their character or of fication case against Poe but he smear campaign against Poe. their capacity to lead the nation,” refused. “Both the President and former has been “engulfed by flood waEscudero said Gordon could [Interior] Secretary Mar Roxas he added. If he believes Poe is a Filipino, have been approached to give have given the Liberal Party clear Roxas should tell LP members credence to the disqualification marching instructions on how and supporters to lay off the mat- case against Poe, since he is an the campaign should be waged. accomplished public servant. ter, Escudero said. We have always campaigned on G8>< 8( t He said candidates should daang matuwid and that we are Charity Binay should do the same, the Sweepstakes Office keep the campaign clean, plat- focused on issues and our plat- (PCSO) intelligence funds. senator added. “C.S. Lewis said that integ- form-based and professional. The court ordered the antigraft form, not on personalities,” he LP denial rity is doing the right thing even said, using the code word for the court to comment within 10 days The LP denied its members Aquino administration’s reform on Arroyo’s petition which arwhen no one is watching. It is not trying to pull something off had asked Gordon to bring a dis- program. gued that the prosecution’s eviin case no one finds out,” Escu- qualification case against Poe. “That is how we practically dence had failed to establish the “[The] LP has not and will not swept the 2013 senatorial elec- crime of plunder. dero said. authorize any person to engage tion, by entirely avoiding a perTurned down Grave abuse Both Roxas and Binay had in a smear campaign,” Marikina sonality-based campaign,” he In a 124-page petition for cerinvited Poe to be their running Rep. Miro Quimbo, spokesper- said. tiorari filed on Oct. 15, the Armate, but she turned them down son for the coalition, said in a “Winning through a smear royo camp asked the high court and opted to run for President statement. campaign will make governance to set aside “for having been is“What we have learned from difficult. We don’t want that,” sued with grave abuse of discreherself. She is now leading in the lat- P-Noy’s experience is that a Quimbo said. tion” the Sandiganbayan’s resoest voter preference polls for the President can make decisions, There was no immediate com- lutions denying her demurrer to however difficult and unpopular ment from the UNA on Gordon’s evidence, a pleading that sought presidential election. In an interview on ANC, Gor- they may be, as long as you have disclosure. ■ to dismiss the plunder charges against her on account of insufficiency of evidence. The antigraft court denied “From all indications, the 12 TPP Arroyo’s first attempt to get the investments,” Cristobal said. G8>< 8( t Furthermore, the Philippines members have been supportive of court to rule on the sufficiency “Joining the TPP will provide more opportunities to further had previously conducted tech- our desire to join but achieving of the evidence on April 6 of strengthen our foothold in the nical discussions with Malaysia, membership will likely take time this year, and then her reconglobal market with our local the US, New Zealand, Austra- since the terms of the agreement sideration plea on Sept. 10. This enterprises, workers and con- lia, Mexico and Canada and will must now be ratified by member- prompted her to elevate the matsumers benefiting from bigger soon initiate the same with the state legislatures before taking ef- ter to the high court. Arroyo’s plea said the antigraft fect,” Cristobal added. ■ markets and increased foreign remaining six countries.

Roxas, Binay asked to stop allies…

ters,” town Mayor Antonio Lustre told ABS-CBN on Monday, Oct. 19. “There’s no other weather features to move it along so it’s just kind of drifting about,” Weather Channel meteorologist Kevin Roth told NBC News. “The storm will have been producing rain in some areas for five-and-a-half days before it moves on--that’s a long time to build up a large rainfall total.” As of press time, 18 people have died, according to the NDRRMC in Quezon City. Sixteen have been injured during the onslaught of the typhoon, and one was reported missing in badly-hit Nueva Ecija province. The Weather Channel reported as many as 28 deaths from drowning, damages, and landslides in provinces like Palayan and Tinoc. “There were people who got trapped by the flood on their roofs, some were rescued already,” said Vice Mayor Henry Velarde of Jaen, a farming town in provincial Nueva Ecija, where about 80 percent of the villages were flooded, according to The

Associated Press. While landslides and river floods swamped and inundated towns and provinces, residents have scrambled to safety, tragically losing their homes, animals, and farmlands in the process. “Our rice farms looked like it was [run] over by a giant flat iron. All the rice stalks were flattened in one direction,” Velarde said. The cost of damage to agriculture is estimated at 5.3 billion pesos, while city infrastructure damages are estimated to be 520,000 pesos, and is still expected to rise. Hundreds of volunteers, both civilians and police officials, have converged on affected areas--such as in landlocked Nueva Ecija--to help stranded farmers and villagers. Philippine President Benigno Aquino III flew to Nueva Ecija to check the flooding situation and distribute food and care packages in an emergency shelter. Aquino said that Koppu’s unusually slow speed allowed it to batter the north for about three days, instead of just a few

court’s rejection of the demurrer to evidence would eventually lead to Arroyo’s conviction for plunder. “As an obvious consequence of the above, denial of petitioner Arroyo’s demurrer to evidence [would lead to] to no less than convicting her on the basis of a disjointed reading of the crime of plunder as defined,” read the petition. It said the Sandiganbayan had effectively “redefined” the offense of plunder in finding the former President liable “on the basis solely of her authorization of the release of confidential/intelligence funds from the PSCO’s accounts.” It argued that Arroyo was being tried and detained for “a crime that does not exist in law, and consequently a blatant deprivation of liberty without due process of law.” No evidence “Not a single testimony of the 21 witnesses of the prosecution was offered… to prove that petitioner amassed, accumulated or

acquired even a single peso of the alleged ill-gotten wealth,” the petition said. “No evidence whatsoever was offered by the prosecution, and not any is on record in the case, to show that petitioner Arroyo ever got hold, received or utilized a single peso of the alleged ill-gotten wealth,” it read. It said there was “absolutely no justification” in law or in evidence that would prove that Arroyo was the “mastermind of a conspiracy,” or that she had made “a series of withdrawals as cash advances” from the PCSO’s confidential/intelligence funds. On Tuesday, Malacañang declined to comment on the status quo ante order issued by the Supreme Court in favor of Arroyo. “I need to know first what is the content of their (SC) order to understand it and be able to give a reasonable commentary,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. told reporters in Filipino. (With a report from Nikko Dizon)

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Supreme Court stops Arroyo…

Philippines intent on joining…

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Clinton urges FDA to lower cost of medical drug by ALLYSON

ESCOBAR

AJPress

Dept. of Education releases resource guide for supporting undocumented high school, college students IN an effort to ensure that all students have access to a worldclass education that prepares them for college and careers, the US Department of Education released a resource guide on Tuesday, Oct. 20 to help educators, school leaders and community organizations better support undocumented youth, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients.

“Our nation’s public schools should be welcoming, safe, and supportive places where all students, regardless of their zip code or where they were born, are given the opportunity to succeed. We know undocumented youth face unique challenges and we also know that educators and other caring adults in schools and colleges can play a major role in helping all stu-

dents, including undocumented students, to achieve at the highest levels,” said John King, senior advisor delegated the duties of deputy secretary of education. “This guide provides actionable information and resources that educators and school and campus leaders can use to help improve outcomes for high school and college students.”

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Obama to leave US troops in Afghanistan…

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citizens and our nation,” Obama said in a White House appearance last Thursday, insisting that he was “not disappointed” in the decision, but “absolutely confident” that this was the right move for the country. He emphasized that US’s combat mission in Afghanistan is over, and the remaining troops will stick to pursuing potential terrorist threats, and helping Afghans. In May 2014, Obama said it was “time to turn the page on a decade in which so much of our foreign policy was focused on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.” He also promised to withdraw the last American troops from the former country by 2016. Obama said that he continues to oppose the idea of “endless war.” But he also said that a longer-term American presence in Afghanistan was “vital to the security of the US, and a country that is beset by the Taliban their allies from Al Qaeda, and militants from the Islamic State,” according to the New York Times. “Our commitment to Afghanistan and its people endures,” said Obama, flanked by Vice President Joe Biden and other top military leaders. “I will not allow Afghanistan to be used as safe haven for terrorists to attack our nation again.” However, he also acknowledged that security remains fragile, and the risk of death of American troops being in the country is still very likely, though far fewer than during the height of the war. So far this year, 25 Americans have been killed overseas. The decision – which was reached after what White House officials called an “extensive,

lengthy review” – ensures that Obama will leave office next year going back on his seminal promise to responsibly end the military involvements started by his predecessor, George W. Bush, by keeping troops in the Middle East. Critics have said that the president is conveying a message of “weakness” to potential dangerous adversaries, such as terrorist groups and militants. The Taliban are now spread through more parts of the country than at any point since 2001, according to the United Nations. Last month, they seized the northern key city of Kunduz and held it for more than two weeks before withdrawing. Noting these dangers, Obama said, “In key areas of the country, the security situation is still very fragile, and in some areas, there is risk of deterioration…after 2017, American forces will remain on several bases [in Afghanistan] to give us the presence and the reach our forces require to achieve their mission.” “In part, it’s the actual dayto-day interactions [between US advisers and Afghan troops] that matter,” said Melissa Dalton, a former Pentagon official, adding that the presence of US troops would help fortify training efforts for Afghan soldiers, and provide political and psychological benefits to the nation. It “demonstrates the US is not walking away” from a situation that remains “very rocky terrain and uncertain,” Dalton said. Critics said Obama’s actions did not go far enough to confront Al Qaeda and other threats in Afghanistan. Soon-to-retire House Speaker John Boehner said in a statement that he was “glad the adminis-

‘US challenging excessive…

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applied evenhandedly with a wide range of nations. Toner declined to say if Washington had informed Southeast Asian countries about its plan to let its ships sail within 12 nautical miles of artificial islands created by Beijing in the South China Sea. He said the US was in constant touch with China and shared its concerns and intentions regarding the South China Sea. Asked at a news briefing if this

meant telling the Chinese “we are sending a boat in here, don’t shoot at it,” he said, “I don’t know” and referred the questioner to the Pentagon. The US has been considering for weeks deploying warships within 12 miles of China’s artificial islands to show its non-recognition of Beijing’s territorial claims. Pentagon officials said they are ready to conduct the mission and are just awaiting orders from the Obama administration. (Jose Katigbak /Philstar.com)

tration finally admits President Obama’s arbitrary political deadlines are ‘self-defeating.’” It’s what we were dreading…I do think I retain hope somewhere inside of me [that the war will end] because I think I have to,” Mary Hladky, whose son is in the National Guard after serving in the Army for several years and in Afghanistan, told the International Business Times. “But it’s just terrible what we’re doing to our men and women who serve. It’s really sad--very, very sad.” “What it’s actually doing is helping [the Islamic State group],” Hladky continued. “Everything we do just helps them and it hurts us. We’re not making progress, so why do we do the same thing? To us, it’s very, very frustrating.” “As in Iraq, the situation in Afghanistan had deteriorated by the time Obama inherited it, making the conflict difficult to end,” said Gordon Adams, professor emeritus of International Relations at American University. “And there’s no evidence that keeping a large US military presence in either country would have brought stability.” (Allyson Escobar /AJPress)

DFA exec: 1.3 M overseas…

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seas voters are roughly equivalent to 5.2 million votes. This is a definite game changer for Philippine politics,” Seguis said. Majority of overseas Filipino voters are based in the Middle East and Africa, where 550,000 active registered voters reside. It is followed by 250,000 voters in the Americas, about 150,000 in Europe; and, 320,000 in Asia and the Pacific. Seafarers amount to 30,000 registered overseas voters. On its part, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) commended the embassies for including over-

seas voting registration in their services. “I hope we can further look into the possibility of holding these registrations in public areas like malls, public squares and parks, community centers and other suitable places where the host government allows the conduct of election-related activities,” Comelec Chairman Andres D. Bautista said. Last June, the DFA completed the rollout of online voters’ registration program which is accessible to OFWs worldwide. Voters’ registration will end on October 31, 2015. ■

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scrutinized by Democrats in Congress and federal prosecutors. Most pharmaceutical companies regularly raise prices, saying it reflects the drugs’ value in the market. The head of Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc, which has also come under fire for raising drug prices and is being investigated by the government, also said that he predicts upcoming lower price increases for the whole industry. “The pharmaceutical industry is being aggressively sort of attacked for past pricing actions,” CEO J. Michael Pearson said Monday. “I do think, given that environment, the pricing that pharmaceutical companies will take in the future will be more modest.” The Daraprim price increase was unusual because it was so large, reports said. In interviews,

Shkreli has defended the steep price hike. Last week, Turing announced it was making “improvements to Daraprim’s affordability and accessibility, to clarify any misunderstandings about Turing’s pricing and distribution,” according to a release. Last month, the former Secretary of State unveiled a plan for a $250 monthly cap on out-ofpocket prescription drug costs and other measures to stop what she calls “price gouging” by pharmaceutical companies. Turing’s Daraprim and Shkreli were both featured in a TV commercial ad run by Clinton’s campaign about how she plans to take on “skyrocketing out-ofpocket costs.” “Nobody in America should have to choose between buying the medicine they need and paying their rent,” Clinton says in the ad. ■

Queremos que viaje con nosotros. Únete a los mejores de América y maneje un autobús de Metro.

We’re watching for your protection. And ours.

Metro takes the safety of all of our patrons seriously. Our camera system monitors you and your ride from start to finish, because everyone deserves a safe trip. Go Metro.

Metro Introduces New Safety and Security Technologies As we continue to make safety our top priority, Metro has introduced three major safety technologies and patrol innovations. This includes deploying elevated security towers, installing security kiosks, and expanding use of the LexRay mobile application, which allows law enforcement to access realtime video from stations and rail platforms. To learn more, visit metro.net/safety. Go Metro to College Football If you’re heading to the Coliseum and Rose Bowl on game day, Go Metro. Metro’s bus and rail lines will help get you past the traffic and parking hassles and straight to the action. To plan the trip that’s best for you, use our Trip Planner at metro.net/gameday. Regional Connector Project Street Closures If you work or live in Downtown LA, please note that Broadway is reduced to one lane in each direction between 1st St and 3rd St, and westbound 2nd St is closed between Spring St and Broadway for construction of the Regional Connector Transit Project. For more details, visit metro.net/regionalconnector. October is Girls Empowerment Month in LA County Metro supports Girls Build LA – a program designed to educate and empower young women with the skills they need to develop solutions to the challenges they face every day. To get involved, visit lafund. org/girlsbuildla.

metro.net @metrolosangeles losangelesmetro

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DEMOCRATIC presidential candidate Hillary Clinton urged US regulators from the Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission to examine the high costs of certain generic drugs, combating anticompetitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry. Clinton’s requests to the FDA and the FTC on Monday, Oct. 19, were prompted by what she called the “egregious actions of Turing Pharmaceuticals,” according to Reuters. Turing Pharmaceuticals drew fire from Clinton last month after news reports that it had raised the price of Daraprim, a 62-yearold treatment for a dangerous parasitic infection, from $13.50 to $750 a tablet after acquiring it. The criticism sent drug industry stock prices plummeting. Turing CEO Martin Shkreli promised to lower Daraprim’s cost to an “unspecified price,” Reuters reported, and Turing is in the midst of a major rebranding effort after being mocked on comedy show “Saturday Night Live.” In her letter to the FDA, Clinton said that Turing has still not “meaningfully lowered the price.” The company’s decision to “artificially increase the price” exploited vulnerable patients who are dependent on the drug, which is often used by those with compromised immune systems, Clinton said. “The FDA should expedite any pending reviews, and encourage applications for review, of other generic alternatives to Daraprim,” she wrote. The FDA said it would review the letter and respond directly to the sender, but noted that the agency’s review of medicines is “a matter of public record.” In her letter to the FTC, Clinton acknowledged it has only “limited authority to address price gouging when it is the result of unilateral action in a market with no competition,” but also urged the agency to examine both Turing and the pharmaceutical industry overall. “I believe it would be a great service to the Congress and the Administration if the FTC would study and make recommendations on whether and how our laws might be amended to address this problem,” Clinton wrote, hinting at how she might attempt to overhaul pharmaceutical practices if elected president next year. Clinton also asked the FTC to investigate whether Turing’s decision to increase Daraprim’s price amounts to the type of anticompetitive behavior the agency can regulate. A Turing spokesman on Monday did not respond to requests to comment on Clinton’s letters to the FDA and FTC. Drug prices are also being

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hours. He also urged villagers not to return to their homes. “They think it is safe already to go back to their communities, but we are preventing them right now,” Aquino told reporters. Fisherman and farmers are advised not to venture over the seaboards of Luzon, the NDRRMC said. As of press time, more than 65,000 villagers in the northern region have been displaced, and over 20,000 across mainland Luzon. With the heavy rains and slow speeds, Typhoon Koppu is expected to hit the northern Philippines for several more days before continuing towards Taiwan and the southernmost islands of Japan. Though causing widespread damage, the rainfall has also provided needed water to several dams that have suffered from the effects of another Pacific

tropical storm, El Niño, according to a situation report from the United Nations. The Angat Dam, which supplies a majority of Metro Manila’s water needs, saw an increase of 7.2 meters in its water level, said The Weather Channel. PAGASA weather forecaster Aldczar Aurelio urged the public and those living in affected villages and provinces to remain calm, evacuate the region, and not be complacent in times of typhoons. He also warned against possible landslides and flash-floods in low, mountainous provinces under the public storm signal. Richard J. Gordon, chairman of the Philippine Red Cross, told NBC News that water was rising steadily in Pangasinan province, pushed by heavy rains and dam water being released. Several low-lying towns in the region were asked to evacuate, warning possible floods from Agno River.

“We are sending rescue teams there now. We will be busy rescuing people from the tops of roofs--they have no place to go,” Gordon said. “A lot of people can drown or be displaced from their homes. This is a developing tragedy.” Koppu, which is Japanese for “cup,” is the 12th storm this year to hit the Philippines. The country averages 20 storms and typhoons each year. In November 2013, over 7,300 people were left dead and thousands missing after Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda), one of the most powerful storms on record, battered the central Philippines. “[In the Western Pacific,] they’re located in the belt basically between the equator and the subtropics,” Bob Henson, from Weather Underground forecast services, told CNN. “It’s considered to be the most vulnerable large nation on earth for tropical cyclones.” ■

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Dept. of Education releases resource guide…

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“It’s been three years since we unveiled the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, or DACA, for those eligible young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children,” said U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Leon Rodriguez. “We strongly encourage those who might be eligible for DACA to use this resource guide. We applaud the Department of Education for providing these resources to the undocumented young people in this country who can benefit from DACA.” The guide includes resources aimed at high school and college students and includes: an overview of the rights of undocumented students; tips for educators on how to support undocumented youth in high school and college; key information on noncitizen access to federal financial aid; a list of private scholarships @e k_`j g_fkf gifm`[\[ Yp k_\ G_`c`gg`e\ 8`i =fiZ\# Õff[nXk\ij `ele[Xk\ _fd\j Xe[ i`Z\ Ô\c[j `e efik_\ie G_`c`gg`e\j Kl\j[Xp FZk% )'# )'(,% for which undocumented youth Kifg`ZXc Jkfid CXe[f `ek\ieXk`feXc eXd\ Bfggl ÔeXccp Yc\n XnXp ]ifd k_\ dX`e efik_\ie G_`c`gg`e\ `jcXe[ Kl\j[Xp# X]k\i c\Xm`e^ j\m\iXc might be eligible; information on federally-funded adult education [\X[ fm\i k_\ n\\b\e[ Xe[ ]fiZ`e^ k\ej f] k_fljXe[j f] m`ccX^\ij `ekf \d\i^\eZp j_\ck\ij Xe[ [\jkifp`e^ i`Z\ Ô\c[j i\X[p ]fi _Xim\jk% JkX]] J^k% Ifc[Xe C% D\[`eX# G_`c`gg`e\ 8`i =fiZ\ $ G@F +('k_ dX`ek\eXeZ\ n`e^ m`X 8G programs at the local level; and

National Family Caregivers Month In California there are approximately 4.4 million unpaid family caregivers. These are people who are taking care of parents, grandparents, or loved ones and many of them are also working outside the home. This November, during National Family Caregivers Month, connect with AARP in Los Angeles as we share resources available to caregivers, tips on understanding The Care Act and learn more about how you can share your story through our I Heart Caregivers effort.

JOIN THE TELETOWN HALL

by entering this link into your browser search bar: http://bit.ly/AARPCaregiving.

THURSDAY NOV 12TH 7PM-8PM

This event is FREE and open to the public, no registration is required. To learn more about this and other events visit: www.aarp.org/losangeles

guidance for migrant students in accessing their education records for DACA. The aim of the guide is to help educators and school staff support the academic success of undocumented youth, to debunk misconceptions by clarifying the legal rights of undocumented students as well as sharing helpful information about financial aid options open to undocumented students, and to support youth in applying for DACA consideration or renewal. King announced the guide during a roundtable with undocumented students at San Francisco State University, which is a leader in supporting the success of undocumented youth. The university has advisers to help undocumented students successfully navigate financial aid options and other university resources, as well as a task force of faculty, staff and students dedicated to supporting the academic, professional and personal success of undocumented students and prospective students. As a nation of immigrants,

America has benefited from the vitality and enthusiasm brought to its shores by those seeking a better life. Successful immigrant and refugee integration efforts build the capacity of schools and early learning programs, communities, organizations, and other stakeholders to support the civic, linguistic, and economic integration of immigrants. Since 2012, the US Department of Homeland Security has allowed certain undocumented people who came to the US as children and meet other criteria to request two-year relief from removal. These requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. More than 680,000 young people have received DACA. Researchers estimate that nearly 1.5 million undocumented youth in the US are currently eligible for DACA, and another 400,000 children will become eligible in coming years. In coming months, the department plans to release a resource guide for early learning and elementary school settings. (AJPress)

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OPINION

FEATURES

Chosen one

AFTER the five-day filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs), from October 12-16, the Commission on Election (Comelec) reportedly received 130 applications from Filipino presidential aspirants. As granted by the law, these applications were accepted. However, not all these aspirants will make it to the ballot as the Comelec winnow the grain from the chaff. When asked about the high turnout of people wanting to be the next Philippine president, Commission on Elections (Comelec) reiterated its provisions on “nuisance candidates.” Citing the Omnibus Election Code, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez told the media that the poll body has the authority to reject the COCs of individuals who make a mockery of the election system; those who seek to confuse voters through similarity of names between candidates; and those who have no bona fide or good faith in running for office. While the filing of COCs appeared to be a circus, Malacañang said that the high turnout of presidential hopefuls “attests to the dynamism of our democracy and reflects the desire of well-meaning Filipinos to actively participate in the electoral process.” “Come election time, we expect our bosses to exercise sound judgment in their selection of future leaders of the country,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said. A presidential wannabe only needs to meet five requirements: a natural born Filipino; a registered

voter; must be able to read and write; 40 years of age at the day of the election; and must have resided in the Philippines 10 years before the election is held. From the 130 names tossed in the ring, only few will make it to the next cut. And when election time is over, one will be named the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines. Four are expected to make it through to the deliberation process, those who have the machinery, resources and potential to launch a nationwide campaign. They are Liberal Party (LP) standardbearer Manuel Roxas II, Vice President Jejomar Binay of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), independent candidate Sen. Grace Poe and Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, who will be running under her People’s Reform Party. Meeting the requirements is easy, winning the Filipinos’ approval is the hard part. Instead of working double time on increasing popularity and gaining plaudits, current leaders and those aspiring for a public post should do more groundwork and to do more for the people. Whether wanting to be a president is wise or not, this ambition will adhere to the requirements of due process. Eventually, it is the Filipino voters who will decide if this dream can turn into reality. Getting the job done is no cakewalk either. As

Editorial

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defined by the Constitution, the president is the Head of State and Head of Government, and functions as the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. As chief executive, the president exercises control over all the executive departments, bureaus and offices.

It is every Filipino’s undertaking to identify these duties and responsibilities. When the winner is declared, they are expected to transcend from the latest poll results and staunch existing political mentality, and aid the next leader in utilizing them for the next six years. (AJPress)

Fil-Ams can help decide who will be the next Philippine president IT is very heartwarming to see and hear how very engaged kababayans in America have increasingly been when it comes to what is going on in the Philippines. Despite the distance away from the Motherland, most of us -- especially those who still have family living there -- still care about what is going on in the country. There are Fil-Ams who may have challenges paying their own bills, yet they feel obligated and compelled to send money to their families because they know if they are remiss in helping out, their loved ones would not be able to survive. Many of these Fil-Ams lament that if only there are more and better employment opportunities back home, then their families would not be very dependent on them financially. If only… That is why news about corruption and incompetence of those in public office infuriate a lot of kababayans in America. The Internet, social media and ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” have provided these kababayans the platform to help them voice out their concerns and opinions about the political situation in the Philippines. However, we can do more to effect change in the Philippines. This is through exercising the right to suffrage. Filipino citizens residing abroad, or those who

ON my recent visit to the Philippines, I Street found myself sharing a case of beer with the Talk vice-mayor of a small provincial town, along with some of his ward leaders. The insights that they provided GREG B. MACABENTA on grassroots politics could be of interest to social media pundits who may be of the impression that their postings on Facebook and Twitter will influence the results of the coming presidential elections. If you recall the “million people” antipork barrel gathering at the Luneta many months ago, fueled mainly by a social media activist, you are probably one of those who believe that your daily online commentaries on the political scene are helping “educate” the bobotantes out there in the provinces and your clever insults and memes are helping erode the SWS and Pulse Asia rankings of the candidates you dislike. Well, okay, mass action was enough to make Noynoy Aquino budge on the PDAP issue, but it fell way short of gathering a million and way short of the impact that social media had on the Arab Spring. On the other hand, who can argue against the power of Facebook and Twitter, considering the 25 million tweets generated by the AlDub phenomenon of GMA Network’s Eat Bulaga? That has certainly brought home the point that the Internet can have a tremendous impact on average folks. But does that power extend to politics? Not quite. According to my drinking buddy, the

may have already naturalized citizens of other countries but The Fil-Am have come dual citizens, can vote -- and these votes will Perspective count. There may have been very low turnout in the past election cycles, but again, because of the power of the Internet, social media, and global broadcast GEL SANTOS-RELOS organizations like ABS-CBN, more and more kababayans are now compelled to register as Overseas Absentee Voters (OAV). There have been some flaws and loopholes in Philippine election laws that discourage more kababayans outside of the country from participating in Philippine elections, but with the advocacy of Filipino community leaders abroad, especially from the United States, these laws have been challenged and amended so more of global Filipinos can cast their sacred and consequential votes. One of these advocates is Atty. Ted Laguatan, an active Fil-Am leader based in San Francisco, California. Laguatan filed a petition before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) -- on behalf of US Pinoys for Good Governance (USPGG), Global Filipino Diaspora Council (GFDC), European Network of Fili-

pinos in the Diaspora (ENFID) and thousands of overseas registered voters — requesting the Comelec not to disenfranchise about 167,000 registered voters who failed to consecutively vote twice. As a result, Laguatan sent “Balitang America” the good news: the Comelec had a meeting en banc to consider such petition and came out with a very positive resolution. The resolution stipulates that on May 27, 2013, Congress amended RA 9189 of the Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003, replacing it with RA 10590 and making it mandatory and not discretionary for the Comelec to deactivate overseas registered voters who fail to vote twice consecutively. Affirming the arguments presented by Laguatan in the petition, the resolution recognized the clamor of overseas voters not to disenfranchise them for failing to vote twice. This resolution also affirms the importance of the right of suffrage of every Filipino, wherever they may be. Laguatan reported that the final policy decision, which was approved unanimously, extends the date for reactivation from Oct. 31, 2015 to Dec. 9,

2015. It also made reactivation a very easy process. Just mail, fax or email the Comelec before this date and the deactivated overseas voter can still participate in the May 2016 elections. Laguatan enthused: “Registered overseas voters now have exceeded the one million mark and with time continue to grow in numbers. They can be a real force for good. In general ORVs [Overseas Registered Voters] cannot be bought nor coerced by goons. They are also better informed. As such, they tend to vote for the best candidates in terms of integrity and competence. They can change the quality of our national leadership with their votes and the votes of their relatives in the Philippines whom they help and who will follow their directions on which candidates to vote for. This is one way in which we can change the political culture in the Philippines, have good honest non-corrupt leaders and create a better life for Filipinos everywhere in the world.” *** >\c JXekfj I\cfj `j k_\ XeZ_fi f] K=:Ëj È9Xc`kXe^ 8d\i`ZX%É M`\nj Xe[ fg`e`fej \ogi\jj\[ Yp k_\ Xlk_fi `e k_`j Zfclde Xi\ Xi\ jfc\cp k_fj\ f] k_\ Xlk_fi Xe[ efk f] 8j`Xe AflieXc Xe[ 89J$:9E$K=:% =fi Zfdd\ekj# ^f kf nnn%K_\=`c$8dG\ijg\Zk`m\%Zfd# _kkgj1&&nnn% ]XZ\Yffb%Zfd&>\c%JXekfj%I\cfj

Insights from a small town politician small town vice-mayor, down at the grassroots the magic word is “mobilization.” That’s a euphemism for vote-buying. The cost of running for public office, at least in my friend’s hometown, can drive the likes of Grace Poe, with her supposed halo of honesty and integrity, to steal from the public coffers upon being sworn into office (or allow her big business funders to do it). I’m afraid the situation isn’t very much different anywhere else in the Philippines. There’s one more fallacy that the “electoral reformists” need to swallow. A presidential campaign is a Big Money Game and the King of Kurakot or Potentate of Plunder is not necessarily the one being relentlessly investigated by the Senate and crucified on TV and the dailies. In a recent story in Philippine Star, Paolo Romero wrote: “Some P45 billion in lump sums under the so-called Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) provisions in the budget program for this year and for 2016 will be used to boost the presidential bid of Manuel Roxas II, an opposition lawmaker said yesterday. “Kabataan party-list Rep. Terry Ridon raised the issue during plenary debates on the proposed budget of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which Roxas headed until last month. ‘There is a reason why Roxas has been going around the country in the past months to promote BUB and even inaugurate BUB projects in the past months,’ Ridon said.”

That, according to my drinking buddy, is just one part of “mobilization.” Manny Villar’s fabled war chest in the 2010 campaign (said to be at P3.5 billion) is chicken feed compared to that of Roxas. If you think that spending the people’s money for a presidential campaign isn’t kurakotand plunder, then you must be like the monkey who sees, speaks and hears no evil. Several decades ago, on a trip to Leyte, I happened to have a casual conversation with someone who had just run for congressman and had lost. He was furious at the way his opponent – who had won – had bribed voters to the tune of P100 per head. I was about to shower him with sympathy but did a double-take when he added that he could only afford to give P50. Well, these days, P100 won’t win you a congressional seat anymore, said my drinking buddy. He recalled how he had to spend one million pesos when he ran for vice-mayor the last time. And he just barely won. How a vice-mayor of a third class municipality can justify spending a million for a position that officially pays peanuts may be explained by the fact that the potential unofficial earnings are more than peanuts. I asked him what the going rate was these days in his hometown. According to him, it’s P50 per voter if you’re running for councilor, P100 to P150 if you’re a candidate for mayor or vicemayor, P500 if you want to become a congressman and as much as a thousand if you are aiming for the presidency. “A ward leader usually accounts for about a dozen voters,” my friend con-

tinued. “When he attends a meeting called by the provincial coordinator of a candidate, he is expected to bring home the ‘mobilization.’ Otherwise, he will lose face as well as his credibility.” Now, that’s just for buying votes. The cost of maintaining the campaign machinery is another thing altogether. In an article for Bulatlat, Karl G. Ombion and Max Cordero, related how an independent activist group in Bacolod computed the expenditures of a trapo or traditional politician running for congress or for mayor in the province. “Payroll accounts for the highest expenditure of politicians,” the article stated. “As many as 6,000 ward leaders are maintained by trapos. Ward leaders constitute the backbone of election campaign organizations. They are the campaigners in the puroks or barangays (villages) where they live. They receive a minimum of P2,000 per month for three months prior to the election. This alone costs P12 million per month or P36,000,000 for three months.” The article broke down the “minimum expenses” of a candidate in Bacolod, on top of the budget for ward leaders, and that added up to more than P73 million. What happens if you don’t have enough funds for “mobilization”? “Don’t bother to run,“ was the reply. “Or run to lose.” That last statement reminded me of a certain senator who has insisted on running for vice-president even while his survey ratings have been pitifully low. “He’s sure to lose,” said one commentator. “But he will win.” What the commentator meant, of

course, was that the senator-cum-VP aspirant is expected to make a neat sum from contributions from businessmen and the usual election bettors, namely, gambling lords and assorted racketeers. So, even if he loses, he still wins. Besides, he won’t have to give up his Senate seat. I asked my drinking buddy if the improved political awareness of the provincial voters, due to the extensive reach of network TV and the Internet, will have any influence on their voting preferences. “Of course that will influence their votes, TV particularly,” he replied. “But the mobilization will have a greater influence.” “Does it mean that whoever has billions in his campaign chest is a sure winner?” I pressed. My drinking buddy hastened to clarify the point. “The big spenders have a major advantage,” he said. “But the voters could also accept the money from one candidate but vote for somebody else.” “And why would they do that?” “There’s one thing that works as well as mobilization,” he explained. “And that is the personal touch. When a candidate actually goes out of his way to personally talk to the voters, that could neutralize the influence of money. ” And then he added: “People also don’t forget being told ‘Bahala kayo sa buhay niyo!’ and ‘Buhay ka pa naman, hindi ba?’” “But an opposition candidate will still have to provide mobilization,” I clarified. “Siyempre,” was his reply. “But, at least, it will cost him less.” (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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8.

DATELINE PHILIPPINES

After Aquino, P400,000 monthly BI orders Pemberton deported salary for president eyed by EVELYN

MACAIRAN Philstar.com

by JESS

DIAZ Philstar.com

MANILA – The administration is planning to increase the salary of President Aquino’s successor from P120,000 to about P400,000 a month. Budget Secretary Florencio Abad told The STAR that under Malacañang’s new salary adjustment plan, government personnel with low salary grades would receive less, while those with high salary levels would get more. “Those with low salary grades are receiving salaries that are already at par with the market. It is the higher grades that are far from the market,” Abad said. By “market,” he said he meant comparing salaries in the government with those in the private sector. There are 33 pay levels in the bureaucracy. Salary Grade 1 is the lowest and pays about P9,500 a month. Salary Grade 33 is the highest and pays P120,000 a month. Abad said the President’s basic monthly salary of P120,000 is only about “30 percent of the market.” When told that making it at par with the market would mean

increasing it more than three times or to about P400,000, he said, “But that is the salary of the country’s president.” If the present Congress approves the salary adjustment plan and Aquino signs it into law, lawmakers and the President are prohibited by the Constitution from benefiting from it. It would be Aquino’s successor who would receive the new rate. Abad said the Cabinet would first approve the plan before it is sent to Congress. He said the proposed P3.002trillion 2016 national budget includes about P60 billion for the new round of salary increase for the more than one million government officials and employees. Sen. Ralph Recto has proposed that the pay hike be focused on Salary Grades 11 to 13, or those receiving between P18,549 to P19,887 and P21,436 to P22,982 a month. Recto said the bulk of state personnel are clustered around these three salary grades. Salary Grade 11 is the entrylevel pay rate in public schools. Government nurses also receive Salary Grade 11, although the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002 provides that they should be get-

ting Salary Grade 15. Party-list group Ang Nars has filed a case with the Supreme Court (SC) to compel the government to follow the law. Three years ago, the government completed a four-year pay adjustment program that saw bureaucrats’ salaries double. For instance, the President’s salary went up from P60,000 to P120,000 a month. Members of Congress used to receive only P35,000 a month. They now get about P95,000, the same salary that Cabinet members are earning. According to the Commission on Audit report on compensation for 2014, high-ranking government officials, including justices of the SC, Court of Appeals, Court of Tax Appeals and Sandiganbayan, are receiving more than P1 million a year in basic pay. There is no cap on how much allowances they get. In the case of the SC, the highest paid justice earned P6.5 million last year. Of that amount, only P1 million was in the form of basic salary. The rest represented allowances. Without the planned new round of increase, taxpayers are shelling out more than P2 billion a day for government salaries. ■

MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has issued a deportation order against US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton even as he is still on trial for the killing of a Filipino transgender last year. But the BI clarified the deportation order could not be immediately enforced pending clearance from the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court Branch 74, which is hearing Pemberton’s case. The Marine is being tried for the murder of Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude in October last year inside a motel room in Olongapo. BI spokesperson Elaine Tan said on Tuesday, Oct. 20 that the bureau wanted Pemberton deported on the ground of “undesirability.” She said the order was contained in a five-page resolution issued last Sept. 16. “Pemberton would not be deported until we get clearance from the court… We would have to wait for the court’s decision before we could physically deport him,” Tan said. The murder case is set for promulgation on Dec. 14. If the court finds Pemberton guilty, he must serve his sentence first before he can be sent back to the United States. But if he is acquitted, then he would be immediately deported, Tan explained. Tan added that despite the deportation order, the Marine would remain in detention at Camp Aguinaldo and would not be placed under the custody of the BI. She said immigration officials have informed the Olongapo court about the deportation order. The deportation order for an “undesirable” alien was based mainly on a statement from Laude’s friend Mark Clarence “Barbie” Gelviro who, during an =fi\`^e D`e`jk\i J\i^\p CXmifm# f] Iljj`X% 8G G_fkf Yp I`Z_Xi[ ;i\n October 2014 Senate hearing, “Our efforts at the regional matism and imagination should pointed to Pemberton as the level should be complemented guide us instead.” person who most likely killed by our work at the bilateral levIn response, Lavrov told him the 24-year-old transgender by el,” he said. that Russia also wants a peace- drowning him in a toilet inside “This is why the Philippines is ful solution to the issue, and that a room at Celzone Lodge in keen on deepening relations with it particularly supports the con- Olongapo City. Gelviro was with Russia on all fronts. I believe we clusion of a legally binding Code Laude and Pemberton before need not be held back by history of Conduct in the West Philip- the pair checked into Celzone and traditional alliances. Prag- pine Sea. ■ Lodge.

Russia neutral on sea row by CHRISTINA

MENDEZ

Philstar.com

MANILA – Russia is neutral on the issue of the West Philippine Sea. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov conveyed this to Senate President Franklin Drilon and other Filipino officials during discussions in Moscow yesterday on pressing global issues, including the need to look for a peaceful resolution of the conflict with China over certain areas in the West Philippine Sea. Drilon and Lavrov also agreed on strengthening bilateral relations. Drilon said he informed Lavrov that “both countries can still work together to strengthen regional peace and stability.”

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On Oct. 26 last year, the BI’s Legal Division charged Pemberton with “undesirability” and included his name in its watchlist. The case was then forwarded to the bureau’s Board of Special Inquiry (BSI) composed of BI Commissioner Siegfred Mison and Associate Commissioners Gilberto Repizo and Abdullah Mangotara. On Nov. 24 last year, the US Marine filed a motion for self-deportation. The BSI said there was no doubt Pemberton poses risk to public interest and should be deported. The BSI said that as stipulated in “Acts or Omissions that Constitute Undesirability of Foreign Nationals, Section 1,” there is a “presumption” that a foreign national is undesirable “if he commits an act constituting a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment of one year or more.” In Pemberton’s case, he was charged with murder, which is a serious criminal offense punishable with more than a year’s imprisonment. The BI-BSI explained that since a deportation proceeding is administrative in character, it only requires “substantial evidence” to establish that an alien poses a risk to national security, public safety or national interest. “Substantial evidence” refers to relevant information that is

enough to support a position. The immigration bureau believes the evidence gathered during the Senate hearing, such as Gelviro’s statement as well as corroborative statement from Celzon Lodge’s cashier Elias Galamos, were enough to justify Pemberton’s deportation. Galamos testified having seen Pemberton walk out of the room less than an hour after he and Laude checked in. Immigration officials also cited as basis for the deportation order the finding of probable cause to charge Pemberton with murder and the subsequent issuance of a warrant of arrest against the Marine by Branch 74 of the Olongapo court. “We find respondent Pemberton, an American national, to be an undesirable alien and order his deportation, subject to the issuance of a clearance from the Regional Trial Court, Branch 74, Olongapo City and other appropriate government agencies,” the BSI said. Likewise, Pemberton’s offer for self-deportation was denied for lack of merit. Pemberton was one of the US soldiers conducting a joint drill with Filipino forces under the Visiting Forces Agreement. The killing of Laude triggered public outrage and rekindled calls for the scrapping of the VFA. ■

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

9(

Business News

Study: PH ranks 127 out Customs Chief Lina assures for Christmas influx of 189 countries in ease BOC ready No more port congestion of paying business taxes by PRINZ

P. MAGTULIS Philstar.com

by AGNES

CONSTANTE AJPress

THE Philippines is not the easiest country to pay taxes in, according to a study conducted by international audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Out of 189 economies reviewed in the report called “Paying Taxes 2015” for ease of paying business taxes, the Philippines ranked 127. In the country, it takes 193 hours for a business to comply with 36 required payments, according to the PwC study. On average, a Philippine employer pays 42.5 percent in taxes and contributions, 6 percent above the average tax rate in the Asia Pacific region. Sen. Francis Escudero, citing the study, said the Philippines has one of the most tedious pro-

cesses for paying taxes in the world and holds the highest income tax rate in Asia. “Where else will you find a country that taxes its people severely and then makes it hard for them to pay?” he said Escudero further pointed out that the Philippines is three ranks above Sierra Leone and 12 ranks ahead of Sudan. “In fact, it’s even easier to pay taxes in Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan. What does that say about us?” he said. The PwC study is completed annually and is included in the World Bank Group’s “Doing Business” project. It attains its findings by assessing the length of time it takes mid-sized companies to prepare, file, and pay its taxes; the number of taxes a business must pay; the method of payment; and the total tax li-

ability as a percentage of its commercial profits. On Monday, Oct. 19, the Malacanang said it would continue working to simplify the tax paying process. The government, through the Bureau of Internal Revenue, is taking measures to make paying taxes more efficient to boost the economy, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said, according to CNN. Simplifying taxes in the Philippines is key to sustaining the stability and growth it has attained in the last five years, said Steve Forbes, chair and editor-in-chief of Forbes Manila, according to InterAksyon. Neighboring Asian nations ranked significantly higher than the Philippines, including Hong

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PH joins worldwide initiative to protect consumers vs scams by RICHMOND

S. MERCURIO

Philstar.com

CONSTANTE AJPress

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entries to other ports in the latter part of the year, we will do so, rather than making our shipments wait in the anchorage,” it explained. “(The) Commissioner himself visited Port of Manila this week,” it added. “The ports are prepared as well as the warehouses.” In addition, Lina said the bureau is likewise coordinating

with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to ensure roads around the ports are cleared amid the worsening traffic condition in Metro Manila. As of September, port utilization is around 65 percent, far from a high of around 90 percent last year after the city government of Manila imposed a tighter truck ban plying around its area

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Amazon suing over 1,000 people for fake reviews by AGNES

MANILA – The Philippines is joining a global move to boost consumer protection against scams. The Department of Trade and Industry said the Philippines has joined 33 other countries that are part of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) in unveiling an improved version of the econsumer.gov website to help law enforcement authorities gather and share cross border consumer complaints that can be used to investigate

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MANILA – There will be no repeat of last year’s port congestion. Local ports have been told to ensure enough capacity for the ongoing cargo influx for the Christmas season and “divert” shipments if necessary as preparations mount to avoid the piling up of undelivered cargoes just like last year. “We are prepared. We are doing all we can and we are in close coordination with other agencies on it. We don’t think it (port congestion) will happen again,” Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina told The Star in an interview. Should there be a necessity however, ports have been instructed to move excess cargoes from one port to another to free up space, also in a bid to save time and ensure their timely delivery, Customs said in a statement. “Ports have already been inspected and given direction should there be a need to divert

AMAZON has filed a lawsuit against more than 1,000 individuals who have allegedly posted bogus reviews of products online. The online retail giant is targeting account holders on Fiverr. com, which offers false review services starting at $5, most of which are five-star reviews. It is demanding that the defendants cease selling Amazon reviews, reveal who is purchasing the service and identify which re-

views were paid for, CBS News reported. “While small in number, these reviews can significantly undermine the trust that consumers and the vast majority of sellers and manufacturers place in Amazon, which in turn tarnishes Amazon’s brand,” the online retailer stated in its complaint. Reviews are both positive and negative, although most defendants offered five-star feedback, according to the complaint. “Indeed, many encourage the Amazon seller to create the text

for their own reviews,” the complaint states. But people are also often paid to create and submit critical reviews to negatively impact competitors, NewYorker.com editor Nick Thompson told CBS. Regardless of whether an individual is a customer or not, anyone is able to post reviews on merchandise sold on Amazon.com. However, the site’s rules state that paid or fictional reviews are prohibited. The company is suing for breach of contract and for violating Wash-

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from February to the middle of September. The ban, said to be targeted on decongesting roads around the capital, had an undesired effect of limiting cargo deliveries in and out of the Metro. This, in turn, resulted in lower supplies, increasing consumer prices and impacting on economic growth. Aside from current preparations, Lina also said Customs officers continue to work from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily in order to facilitate cargo inspection on a timely basis. Reforms undertaken by the Aquino administration

will also help the bureau. One of them is Republic Act 10668, which amended the Cabotage law to allow freer access to local ports by foreign vessels. Under the law signed last July, shipments for areas outside Manila may now be directly sent to any ports in the country. Before, these cargoes will need to be cleared first by the Manila port before getting shipped to their destination. Sought for comment, businesses had mixed views of Customs’ assurance. Alfredo Yao, president of the Philippine Chamber of Com-

merce and Industry, said port congestion is already unlikely since most Christmas goods are arriving from September to October. “If they are saying that we are only on 65 percent port utilization, then that is good, especially since the goods for Christmas are already arriving,” Yao said in phone interview over the weekend. “I don’t think it can worsen anymore. At the most, few more Christmas goods will arrive until mid-November. But the height really is from September to October,” he added. ■

PH joins worldwide initiative to… G8>< 9( t and take action against international scams. “The econsumer.gov is a portal in which Filipino consumers, whether here or abroad, can report international scams. The information they will share will be used by consumer protection agencies from around the world as basis to develop mechanisms to combat and prevent such scams from proliferating,” Trade Undersecretary Victorio Dimagiba said. ICPEN is an international network of consumer protection authorities that aims to protect consumers’ economic interests around the world by sharing information about cross-border issues and encouraging global cooperation among law enforce-

ment agencies. The site, which was launched in 2011, is now easier to use with its user- and reader-friendly interface that suits tablet and smart phone browsing, the DTI said. The Philippines and Vietnam are the only Asean member states that are members of the ICPEN but it is only the DTI that has access to database. “The DTI can use the complaints in the secure database to investigate cross-border issues, uncover new scams, pursue regulatory or enforcement actions, and spot trends on emerging consumer issues,” the agency said. “Gaining access to the complaints database of the ICPEN is a highlight development in DTI’s

continued effort to strengthen cross-border redress especially in today’s time when threats against the rights and welfare of consumers is no longer isolated in one’s country, but can emanate from any part of the world through the use of internet technology,” it added. Dimagiba said the DTI is urging all consumers to report international scams through the econsumer.gov website to aid consumer protection agencies in addressing such scams. He said consumer complaints filed through econsumer.gov are entered into a secure consumer complaint database and are made available to enforcers and regulators in countries with participating agencies. ■

Amazon suing over 1,000 people for fake…

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ington’s consumer protection laws, according to CNN. The retailer said it conducted an investigation, including buying fake customer reviews on Fiverr from people who pledged five-star ratings, BBC reported. It also offered to allow purchasers to write reviews. Some reviewers attempted to circumvent controls on Amazon.com by submitting content through different accounts and by using unique IP addresses, according to court documents. Many of the paid reviews in this case were written abroad, which makes it more difficult to identify the writers. Fiverr said it was working with Amazon to resolve the issue, BBC reported. However, it

declined to state whether or not it will cooperate in the case, saying “we actively remove services that violate our terms of use.” “The challenge of merchants soliciting illegitimate reviews is one that faces all marketplaces and online platforms,” Fiverr said in a statement. “In fact, in our own marketplace we restrict reviews to only those who we can verify have actually purchased a service.” On Monday’s “CBS This Morning,” Thomspon offered advice on how to discern bogus reviews, such as by using websites that help authenticate how valid they are and for searching for specific descriptions. “Hotel reviews that tend to have specific details like ‘the bathroom is large’ tend to be real because if they’ve got that

sort of spacial information, it means that someone was actually there,” Thompson said, according to CBS. He also said that companies need to work on training algorithms to discern fake reviews from real ones. The lawsuit follows a similar case in April when Amazon sued a number of websites for selling fake reviews. Most of the sites in the earlier incident have been shut down, CNN reported. For this lawsuit, Amazon has referred to the 1,114 defendants as “John Does,” as it does not know their real names. “Amazon is bringing this action to protect its customers from this misconduct, by stopping defendants and uprooting the ecosystem in which they participate,” the lawsuit states. ■

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Debt Relief ATTY. LAWRENCE YANG Client no. 1 IS it even legally possible that your social security benefits can be garnished? If creditors can get your social security income when you retire, how can you have peace of mind when you retire? To be sure, not every kind of creditor can garnish your social security, because social security income is generally exempt from garnishment. So who can garnish your social security? The bad guy who doesn’t care if you live or die has been, is, and will always be the IRS. The IRS can garnish your social security for unpaid taxes. The IRS is the shark that will eat you alive. But the shark does have a heart and is capable of a little mercy. The IRS usually will not garnish more than 15% of your social security income! Still, receiving 15% less of social security can make or break your monthly retirement budget, especially if, all you rely on at retirement is social security and nothing else. Client is 63 years old with a previous Chapter 7 discharge in 2008 when he wiped out $30K of credit cards. He took early retirement at 62 because he said that he was getting depressed with life. He has been receiving social security of $1,315. Recently, he received something that made him more depressed, a letter from the IRS saying that they were going to garnish a portion of his social security for unpaid income taxes for 2009 of $10,000. It appears that client liquidated all of his 401K of $85K in 2009 because his son needed a heart bypass surgery and had no medical insurance. Son lived in client’s country of origin where the cost of heart bypass surgery was significantly less than here,

Client files chapter 13 to stop garnishment of social security Abandoned wife files chapter 7 to discharge collection lawsuits for $20K

but nevertheless reached $60K. Here’s how the IRS problem arose. He did not declare the liquidation of the 401K in his tax returns because he knew that if he disclosed it, his income would increase by $85K, resulting in higher income tax liability which he had no ability to pay. The nondisclosure gave him temporary relief but as Benjamin Franklin said, “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” So, eventually the IRS assessed her additional taxes. What he did not expect that the IRS would also assess her an “accuracy penalty” of 25% because she knew that she liquidated her 401K but did not disclose it. An “accuracy penalty” also makes that tax nondischargeable because it shows conduct or intent to evade taxes. Client cannot discharge this tax even in a Chapter 7. Client will file Chapter 13 to stop the garnishment and pay the IRS without interest and penalty at $170 a month for 60 months. This is still a better deal than an installment payment plan or continued garnishment, both of which have interest and penalty. Client no. 2 Client is 45 years old. Husband abandoned her 5 years ago and left her with $40K of credit card debt. Husband worked as hotel manager for a big hotel in Los Angeles. A woman lawyer represented the owner of the hotel. The lawyer conducted audits of the hotel operations. The lawyer would fly in from abroad and spend a long time with client’s husband discussing hotel business. They had meetings late at night. Apparently, the lady lawyer found client’s husband attractive. Being the hotel manager, he had access to the hotel

rooms. One drink led to another, and soon enough, they were in the hotel room purportedly inspecting if the sheets were clean enough. You know the rest of the story. Suspecting something was going on, client asked husband if he was having an affair with the lady lawyer that her husband had introduced to her in a business party. Husband replied, “ No way, she is so ugly! I wouldn’t touch her with a ten foot pole!” Eventually, husband decided to divorce client to marry the ugly lawyer who got husband promoted to regional manager for the hotel chain. Husband promised to pay off the community property credit card debt of $40K. He made minimum payments for 3 months then stopped altogether. Client paid the minimum of $1,200 monthly to keep them current for 5 years. After paying $72K in 5 years, she found out that the principal owed was still $40K! She defaulted on the cards. Now she faces collection lawsuits for half of the cards. Client now decides to file for Chapter 7 relief. She should have done it 5 years ago and she would have saved herself $72K and would have very good credit again by now close to 700. “The sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights.” – Habakkuk 3:19. ! ! ! CXni\eZ\ 9Xlk`jkX PXe^ jg\Z`Xc`q\j `e YXebilgkZp# Ylj`e\jj# i\Xc \jkXk\ Xe[ Z`m`c c`k`^Xk`fe Xe[ _Xj jlZZ\jj]lccp i\gi\j\ek\[ dfi\ k_Xe Ôm\ k_fljXe[ Zc`\ekj `e :Xc`]fie`X% Gc\Xj\ ZXcc 8e^`\# 9XiYXiX fi A\jj Xk -)- )/+$((+) ]fi Xe Xggf`ekd\ek Xk (''' J% =i\dfek 8m\# DX`cjkfg ,/# 9l`c[`e^ 8$( Jl`k\ ((),# 8c_XdYiX# :8 0(/'*% 8[m\ik`j`e^ Jlggc\d\ek

Study: PH ranks 127 out of 189…

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Kong and Singapore, which ranked fourth and fifth with three and five tax payments, respectively. “How can we encourage investors to come and put their money here when a third of that will go to taxes that will be difficult to pay?” Escudero said. The senator urged Filipinos to make tax reforms an election is-

sue so more leaders would back legislative efforts to amend the Tax Reform of 1997, according to InterAksyon. “Everyone is now singing the same tune, even those who were hesitant to support us in the past. And that’s fine. The important thing is to let this campaign for tax reforms gather steam because it is a legitimate issue that begs to be addressed if we want

to sustain economic growth,” he said. United Arab Emirates and Qatar tied for the top spot on the list, requiring four payments that could be completed in 12 hours and 41 hours, respectively. Bolivia ranked last among the 189 countries, with its tax procedure requiring 42 payments that take 1,025 hours to complete. ■

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The curious case Calendar of Events across America of Stephen C. Davis: A ghost story ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS!

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA =`ijk f] ) gXikj

FESS up J. K. Rowling. That scene in one of the Harry Potter books where eerie sounds and strange occurrences caused by a ghost in residence were coming from — of all places— the toilet stalls, in Hogwarts is not all that original. Because it happened years ago, not as fiction but as part of reality — my reality, that is. Just for kicks during my halcyon days as a full-time working /full-time grad student at the University of the Philippines long ago, I had agreed to act as medium for a séance or a hypnotic session to conjure or call the spirit or spirits that were causing a disturbance. I took over from another medium in a previous session weeks earlier conducted by a Jesuit priest from the Ateneo, Fr. Bulatao. There were repeated paranormal disturbances at the old building where I worked, a stone’s throw from the Institute of Mass Communication (now called by another name) where I was a grad student at night while working during the day as a full time research associate of what was then the Institute of Environmental Planning, now called the School of Urban & Regional Planning. That haunted building has been razed and there stands a newer multi-story building. At night, the custodian claimed that when all the rooms were locked up and no one was inside, there were eerie noises that would make the hair on the back of one’s neck stand on end. The occurrences were so frequent and so disruptive, ignoring them and pretending life was normal was no longer an option. Someone finally did something about it and called on Fr. Bulatao to help shed light on the mysterious goings-on at the institute. I simply avoided the rest rooms and steered away from isolated areas of the building and never stayed in the building past sundown. Professor Cynthia Turingan was the first medium. Under hypnosis, she revealed that an

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“…Quite plainly, there are things in this world that cannot be defined, completely understood and pegged in a nice, neat box …” American soldier, an enlisted man, by the name of Stephen Davies (his name was spelled with an e in the surname) was murdered at the location right smack dab where the building stood. Details of a murder story flowed out of her like a gusher. But then it came to an abrupt halt when the door to the room where the session was being held, for no apparent reason, suddenly burst open. The medium snapped out of the hypnotic trance feeling extremely limp and exhausted as though she had traveled many

Stephen Davies revealed the name of his murderer. He said he was hit on the head by a piece of wood while he was out on patrol one night and was robbed of his money. The ghost revealed details about his murderer: his assailant’s name, the exact address where he lived, describing him as an old man by that time, languishing in jail for other crimes he committed and that the house where the murderer used to live on J.P. Rizal Street in Makati was eventually destroyed by fire. He was asked about the name of his wife and where she lived, questions upon questions which the ghost said were “not important” but pressed further, he said that his wife had remarried and pleaded not to bother his wife anymore. He said that he was not the only spirit hovering in the area and that there were many others. Asked about how he felt, he said that he was lonely and that he just wants to be remembered. Over and over again, he said he wanted to be remembered. He ignored questions about his past brushing them aside for the one thing he wanted — that he be remembered. His bones, he said, lay scattered and mixed with the soil in the same area which was leveled years earlier by a bulldozer. The ghost of the dead soldier requested that a mass be said on a sunny day in his remembrance — a request the group readily granted him. Shortly after, the eerie occurrences seemed to stop. (To be continued) ***

But then it came to an abrupt halt when the door to the room where the session was being held, for no apparent reason, suddenly burst open. The medium snapped out of the hypnotic trance feeling extremely limp and exhausted as though she had traveled many miles across a desert without water.

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miles across a desert without water. I stood up and with a nonchalant shrug of my shoulders calmly closed the door. Dissatisfied with the aborted session, the group decided to hold another. Professor Turingan was unavailable for the next session and I was drafted to act as medium, a role which I accepted on a lark and a dare. There was a thunderstorm raging outside but I don’t remember much of what I said when I went on a trance. I do remember feeling very light, as though weightless, while someone gently whispered things to my ear. Later, I learned that under hypnotic suggestion, I was instructed to go back to 1945, the year that the medium revealed when the alleged murder of the American soldier occurred. I described the place as I saw it — an open field, a moonless night, quonset huts and a heavy sense of foreboding in the air. During the session, the same

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PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS

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DXe[XZXc )-k_ 8ee`m\ijXip ;`ee\i$;XeZ\ MANDACAL (Mandaluyong Civic Group of Southern California) would like to invite you to attend its 26th Anniversary Dinner Dance on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at the Embassy Suites Glendale (800 North Central Ave. Glendale, CA 91203). The event is a sit down dinner with live music by the Hill Tops Band #1, providing your favorite dance music from 5pm until midnight. There will be raffle prizes and many fabulous door prizes to be given away. Come enjoy a night of great food, excellent music, and pure fun with your family and friends! Tickets are $55 each. For tickets and information, please call: Becky 818-572-3261, Espee 626-3833621, or Julie 858-337-9224.

9f_fc :_`c[i\e 9XdYff <ej\dYc\ `e :feZ\ik Presented by Bible Christian Fellowship Church, the one-of-a-kind Bohol Children Bamboo Ensemble, hailing from Alicia, in Bohol province, will perform at various locations during their first-ever tour in the US. 23 young performers from Katipunan Elementary School and the Bohol community will perform using traditional bamboo instruments, including a ukulele, drums, flutes, and bass. There will also be special guests, inspiring music, and traditional dances of the Philippines. For many of these young performers, it is their first time to visit the US, and they are eager to share their talents with the community. The show on Saturday, Oct. 24 will take place at Rosemont Elementary School Auditorium (421 Rosemont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026) at 6:30pm; on Saturday, Nov. 7 at Bible Christian Fellowship Church (456 Rosemont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026) at 6:30pm; and on Saturday, Nov. 14 at Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA - 3200 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026) at 6:30pm. Light refreshments will be served. Ticket prices vary from $10, $25, and $50. For tickets and more information, please call 213-249-6672.

?\cg`e^ ?Xe[j DXii`X^\ <ei`Z_d\ek J\d`eXi Couples, please join for the Marriage Enrichment Seminar on Saturday, October 24 from 9am to 5pm at Helping Hands Adult Day Health Care (9051 Woodman Ave, Arleta, CA 91331). Featuring fun games and prizes, biblical teachings, and engaging interactions relevant to couples’ everyday life. Price for couples is $50, and $20 for single participants. Call Henjie Pimenta at 818-486-7481 for more information.

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IfjXip IXccp Xk Jk% ;\e`j GXi`j_ All are invited to attend the Rosary Rally for the Blessed Virgin Mary (Sponsored by the Federation of Filipino Rosary Groups. Inc). This is an annual celebration which calls everyone to prayer for world peace. A reception follows immediately after the liturgy at Potthoff Hall. When: Sunday, October 25, 1:30 pm Mass; Pre-liturgy at 1:15 pm Where: St. Denis Parish (2151 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar, CA 91765) Celebrant: Monsignor James Loughnane, P.A.

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GXZf :Xk_fc`Z ?`^_ JZ_ffc :cXjj f] (0-+ I\le`fe sa Amerika” at the Gold Coast Casino & Hotel (4000 Flamingo Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89103) in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 25-27, 2015. Reminisce with your schoolmates from 50+ years ago and re-live memorable high school days! Reconnect with your old friends and make some new ones! This is the first reunion gathering in the US since our 50th grand reunion. For more information, please contact: Dan Hidalgo - danielh616@hotmail.com; tel. (914) 3100864 / (914) 740-7028. Ester Tadeo Celestino - cesarucelestino@yahoo.com; tel. (201) 4330727/ (551) 574-8511. Minda Cuario Cameron - meandatwo@aol.com; tel. (813) 633-5642. Ed Bondoc - bondoced@yahoo.com; tel. (415) 342-9877. Gertrudes “Nette” Descallar Collyer - mycolly@roadrunner.com; tel. (818) 767-8175.

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8j`Xe Nfic[ =`cd =\jk`mXc `e Cfj 8e^\c\j The Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) brings the best of a broad selection of Asian World cinema to Los Angeles from Oct. 26 - Nov. 2, 2015 in order to draw greater recognition to the region’s wealth of filmmakers, strengthening ties between the Asian and Hollywood film industries. With films from 50 countries across Asia, from Turkey to Japan to India and the Philippines, the AWFF focuses on cinema-lovers, especially fans of foreign and independent films. Screenings will be held at the ArcLight Cinemas and iPic Theater in Culver City, and VIP festival passes (including access to filmmakers lounge, professional panels, cocktail receptions, and screenings) are available. A special showing of Paul Soriano’s “Kid Kulafu,” the story of a young Manny Pacquiao, will also premiere on Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 8pm at ArcLight. For more information and ticketing prices, please visit http://www.asianworldfilmfest.org/.

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?Xccfn9XZb ?Xccfn\\e ;XeZ\ <m\ek This coming Halloween, come to the newest ultra-lounge located near Glendale’s Americana, the chic 103 LOUNGE (103 E. Broadway Ave., Glendale, CA, 91025, across Marshalls and Bloomingdale’s)! Brought to you by EMEX Events, ToneDef Music, Bounce Electronic Music & DJ School, with support from MISS PHILIPPINES USA, HALLOWBACK is a one-of-a-kind Halloween dance music/clubbing event. Featuring dance tunes from the mid 90’s until the year 2000 by DJs Mon Maramba and Josh Evangelista, and curated by Louie Ysmael together with Arnel Castillo, as well as local retro hero Ricky Fabre of ClubManila. Doors for this popular Halloween event will open at 9pm, so make sure you secure a spot on the dancefloor! 21+ only, with $10 entry fee. Reserved seating with bottle service and birthday specials/VIP areas available. Please email tonedefmusicph@gmail.com for more info.

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:XcXgXe :\ekiXc ?`^_ JZ_ffc I\le`fe Please save the date for the 60th anniversary year of Calapan Central School in Oriental Mindoro. Where: Oakland, CA When: November 1-3, 2015. Contact: Luz Yu (luz_yu@yahoo.com)

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=G8: )+ $ È9Xc`b kXeXn# GXeXeXn YlbXjÉ Save the date! The 24th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture (FPAC) will be celebrated on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at El Pueblo de Los Angeles (125 Paseo De La Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012). and will feature contemporary and traditional Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture. FPAC is the longest-running Filipino cultural celebration in Southern California. This year’s theme for the City of Los Angeles’ Filipino American Event is “Balik tanaw, Pananaw bukas” a Tagalog phrase meaning “looking backward, looking forward, and celebrates the rich experiences of being Filipino American. As a community we honor the culture paved by our ancestors, and move forward with a grateful understanding of our Filipino American history. This is the spirit that keeps FPAC going. Please check www.filmarts.org for more event updates. For Sponsorship Inquiries please contact us at 213-380-3722; or info@ filamarts.org. For exhibitor (food and business) information, contact John Swing at jswing@ esipa.org. #FPAC24

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88G8 8nXi[j >XcX Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) will host The Achievement Awards & Graduation Gala, honoring prominent leaders who trailblaze and inspire others to become leaders, and celebrating the 2015 graduating class of AAPA Mentees. The theme is “Waves of Change, Oceans of Opportunity.” The gala will take place on Thursday, Dec 3 from 5:30pm - 9:30pm, at the Hilton San Gabriel (225 West Valley Blvd. San Gabriel, CA 91776). Expose your brand to the professional community who are your customers, clients, potential employees, entrepreneurs, corporate and community leaders. Your support will directly benefit the AAPA mentees in the program. To purchase a ticket or ad, the cost is $50 each (limited time only); full/half/quarter page ad sizes are available in full color. Please visit http://aapaawards. eventbrite.com/ for more details and to RSVP by Nov. 13. Please get involved by emailing lia. andika@aapamentoring.com.

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Barrister’s Corner ATTY. KENNETH URSUA REYES FAMILY Code 760 provides that all property acquired by the spouse during the marriage is community property. That means each spouse has a half interest on any assets that are acquired during the marriage, with certain exceptions, since it is generally characterized as community property. On the same token, Family Code 771(a) provides that earnings and accumulations of a spouse while living “separate and apart” from the other spouse, are the separate property of the spouse. How about the situation where the couple continues to live together due to economic reasons like roommates. Is a couple living “separate and apart” under family code 771(a) when they continue to live together in the same home even though they no longer live their lives like married couple? The California Supreme Court, in a recent case In re Marriage

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Do you need to be living in separate residences to be considered ‘separated’ from your spouse under the California family law? of Davis, 61 Cal 4th 4th 846 (2015), held that the phrase “living separate and apart” in the California family code refers to a situation in which spouses are living in separate residences and at least one of them has the subjective intent to end the marital relationship, abrogating In re Marriage of Johnson, 134 Cal. App.3d. 148. Prior to this decision, the date of “separation” occurs only when the parties have come to a parting of the ways with no present intent to resume their marriage and their conduct evidences a complete and final break in the marital relationship. The Court would consider all of the relevant evidence regarding whether the parties’ conduct evidences a complete and final break in the marital relationship. Living in separate residences, although a factor to be considered, was not required for a separation. In re Marriage of Davis, husband and wife married in 1993 and had two children. Couple

stopped having sexual relationship in 1999. Wife moved to another bedroom in the house either in 2001 or 2004. Husband and wife attended children’s activities but used separate cars. On June 1, 2006 wife announced she was “through” with the marriage. Wife believed couple were acting simply as roommates after 2006. Wife increased her earnings after this date while husband left his job. Parties continued to live in the marital home and went on vacation together. Wife filed for divorce in 2008. Wife moves out of the marital residence on July1, 2011. Wife alleges date of separation of June 1, 2006. Husband alleges a date of separation of July 1, 2011. The trial court and the court of appeal found June1, 2006 as the date of separation. The California Supreme Court reversed the decision holding that living in separate residences “is an indispensable threshold requirement for a finding that spouses are “living separate and apart”

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for purposes of section 771(a). The interpretation aligns with the common understanding of the words, the statutory history of the provision, and legitimate public policy concerns. The In re Marriage of Davis decision now requires the parties to be living in separate residences as a prerequisite to a separation. In IRMO Davis, the California Supreme Court looked into the plain meaning of the statute, the legislative intent and history of the statute, and the case law in interpreting the term “separate and apart.” The California Supreme Court looked into the wording and legislative intent of family code 771(a) by tracing it back to a 145 year old predecessor statute enacted in 1870 “ An Act to Protect the Rights of Married Women in Certain Cases.” Section 4 of the 1870 act provided a procedure for a wife who was “living separate and apart” from her husband to sell her real property without joining with her husband by stating in

a declaration ”her own place of residence that is “separate and apart from her husband” which strongly suggests that the statute was directed at a situation where the spouses had physically separated and the wife in fact had her own residence. The Supreme Court also relied on the holding in the Norviel case which held that living apart physically is an indispensable threshold requirement to separation, whether or not it is sufficient, by itself to establish separation. Although the Davis case has adopted a bright line test in determining date of separation, it also acknowledge that there may be “exceptional circumstances” when a couple is under one roof but still separated. This was noted in footnote 7 in Davis and the concurring opinion written by Justice Liu and joined by Justice Werdergar. Davis has listed facts that do not qualify as exceptional circumstances. The date of separation is one of the most litigated issues in a divorce

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Wednesday, OCTOBER 21, 2015

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PHOTOS BY LOREN TOWNSLEY

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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 21, 2015

At Pilipino Workers Center housing village, labor leader Larry Itliong’s legacy lives on by AGNES CONSTANTE / AJPRESS ON the third floor of the Larry Itliong Village, an affordable housing building in Historic Filipinotown, a spacious courtyard boasts a view of Downtown LA’s skyline and paintings of the Philippine sun with extended rays. It’s also the floor where the apartment of Maria*, 74, a Filipina tenant, can be found. Maria has lived in the housing complex since 2014 -- around the time the building opened its doors to tenants -and is the first time she has had her own apartment. On the fifth floor, Noli Gerona, 59, lives in a one-bedroom unit with his 79-year-old mother. From his window, the view isn’t quite what it is from the courtyard: he says he can see a pile of soil, other apartments and houses. But Gerona has no complaints because prior to moving into the Village, he and his mother shared a rented room in a house. Additionally, half the cost of his unit is subsidized.

“Lucky naka pasok kami dito (We’re lucky we got into this place),” Gerona said. “This [unit] is not really that big, but we’re really happy kasi ang ganda ng building (This [unit] is not really that big, but we’re really happy because the building is so beautiful),” he added. A 10-year project The Larry Itliong Village, located on the corner of Glendale Boulevard and Rockwood Street, is home to 44 low-income households. (A 45th unit is designated for the building manager.) The project is named after Fil-Am labor organizer Larry Itliong, who was among Filipinos who started the Delano Grape Strike in 1965, which set the foundation that led to the eventual creation of the United Farm Workers. With Larry Itliong, a distinct name that cannot easily be confused with others, the housing building was named to bring visibility to both the Filipino community in Historic Filipinotown and the general community. But more importantly, the Village car-

Noli Gerona, 59, a Filipino tenant who lives in the Pilipino Workers Center affordable housing project with his mother, says moving into the complex has elevated his standard of living.

The “Slut,” a coddled egg dish

ries a name that seeks to uplift and honor Itliong’s legacy. “This is a part of our legacy,” said Aquilina Soriano Versoza, executive director of the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC), a nonprofit organization located on the first floor of the village that is dedicated to assisting workers and their families meet their immediate needs, and gain leadership skills that can be used toward action for change. “The United Farm Workers made some huge changes to the way labor laws were, and that’s a huge contribution of the Fil-Am community here.” “At PWC, we’re inspired by all of the work that the farm workers did to come together, organize and really improve the conditions they were working and living in,” Versoza added. It was PWC, along with the Little Tokyo Service Center (LTSC) Community Development Corporation, that worked to develop the project. With an acquisition loan from the Local Initiative Support Corporation, the organization was able to

secure and purchase the land in 2003. It took about 10 years from the start to completion of the building in 2013. It received funding from several sources, including federal, state and local grants; and the environmental cleanup fund. By October 2013, the building was completed with five floors. There are a total of 45 units in the building, one of which is for the manager. Of the remaining 44, half are designated regular affordable housing for low- to moderate-income households, while the other 22 are for very low-income households who receive additional subsidies from the housing authority. Do you know what’s the occupancy rate right now? Additionally, nine units are designated for transitional age youth. On the first day that PWC began accepting applications for the housing units, Versoza said there were more than 2,000 received. The main criteria for selecting tenants were based on income levels and on if ap-

Maria*, 74, is a Filipina trafficking survivor. She is living in her own apartment unit for the first time at the Larry Itliong Village

The lunchtime crowd at Eggslut

Photos by Loren Townsley

plicants were coming from a homeless or transitional housing situation. With the high volume of applicants, a raffle system was implemented to assign each household a number. This determined the order in which applications were reviewed. By November 2013, tenants began moving into the new

units. Housing features and characteristics Each unit of the Larry Itliong Village offers tenants free gas, water and WiFi. They also come furnished with a dishwasher, microwave, stove, refrigerator and air conditioning. Half of the low-cost units also Continued on Page 3

The courtyard of the Larry Itliong Village is on the third floor of the building and is decorated with paintings of extended rays of the sun found on the Philippine flag.

features

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 21, 2015

Model from Nueva Vizcaya crowned Miss World Philippines 2015 By AGNES

CONSTANTE AJPRESS

A Filipino-Chinese model and children’s health advocate from Nueva Vizcaya was crowned Miss World Philippines 2015 during a pageant held at the Solaire Resort Casino in Paranaque City on Sunday, Oct. 18. Hillarie Danielle Ang Parungao, 24, beat 25 other candidates to represent the Philippines in the Miss World 2015 competition to be held on Dec. 19 in Sanya, China. In addition The courtyard of the Larry Itliong Village is on the third floor of the building and is decorated with paintings of extended rays of the sun found on the to winning the crown, she took Philippine flag. Photo by Loren Townsley home several special awards, including: best in swimsuit, best in sports challenge, best in fashion runway and best in long gown. Parungao also excelled in the From Page 2 building and through communal Pacific Islanders, most of whom question and answer portion of come with beds, dining tables housing activities. are Filipino. There are also the competition during the Top and sofa beds. Formerly homeless individutransitional age youth (between But one of the key aspects of 18 to 25 years old), who are als have also found shelter in the 13 semifinals and Top 5 finals. “My philosophy always relies the housing project is that it is the emancipated foster youth and facility, including Edith Uzohl, 58, on compassion which can open first to implement a lending circle at-risk youth who come from who volunteers for PWC. After doors to challenges in life. In program for security deposits. moving back to California from a wide spectrum of situations; Because the deposits can be a Tennessee for a job that ultimate- compassion, we get to undertrafficking victims; and domestic barrier for people to get into the violence survivors. ly did not work out, Uzohl ended stand people, and in understanding people, we become a better units, Versoza said, the program up at Good Shepherd Center Each year, households in society,” she said, according to allows tenants to pay the amount regular affordable housing units and then a transitional housing throughout a one-year period. facility where she paid $400 a must go through a recertificaIn the five-story building, month to share a room. tion process. Should a tenant’s floors three to five are dedicated income see an increase, the rent Uzohl now lives in a one-bedto residential units; the second room unit that she’s in the prothey pay will be adjusted. by TETCH TORRES-TUPAS floor is for parking; and on the cess of furnishing, and having her A common thread for the Inquirer.net first is where the PWC office is own space is “lovely.” Getting tenants of the Larry Itliong THE Court of Appeals gave found. to be by herself is what she likes Village is that moving into the the go-signal for the arrest and Since the housing units are best, although she also apprecifacility resulted in a significant prosecution of television host located above the office, tenates the privacy and security she improvement in their living situWillie Revillame on charges of ants have access to a number of has in her living space. ations. child abuse and child exploitaservices on site. Among these “[It’s great] knowing that Among residents who have tion. include free tax preparation, food found a home in the Village is when I put something down it’s In an 11-page decision issued distribution, access to computers Blanca Medina, 28, a mother of not going to be stolen, because by the appeals court 13th diviand workforce training (mostly there was a lot of that going on four. Prior to moving into the geared toward caregiving). in transitional housing,” she said. sion through Associate Justice affordable housing project, she Ma. Luisa Quijano-Padilla, it said One of the goals of the PWC, lived in an East Los Angeles shelThe Larry Itliong Village is Versoza said, is to create a comalready at full capacity, but Gero- the Quezon City Regional Trial ter where she and her kids had munity among its tenants. to share one bedroom, as well as na, the Filipino tenant on the fifth Court correctly issued the order. Revillame was charged with As part of that effort, the floor, said he wishes it could be share the bathroom and kitchen child abuse after he made a Village also offers activities for its with other tenants. She also extended to more individuals. six-year-old boy perform gyrattenants, such as Cinco de Mayo “I just wish more people wasn’t allowed to have visitors or ing moves like male strippers and Philippine Independence could get something like this leave the shelter after 6 pm. in a March 2011 episode of his Day celebrations. Community kasi talagang na-elevate and Having her own space, for defunct show “Willing Willie.” rooms on the first floor also serve which she pays 30 percent of standard ng living namin (I just He asked the boy to repeat as spaces for Zumba classes and wish more people could get her income, without having to his dance moves and gave the food distributions. something like this because our share amenities in her unit with boy P10,000. The host even tried Tenants standard of living really elevatso many others, is one of the to imitate the boy’s moves and According to Versoza, Latinos best parts of living in the Village, ed),” he said. account for the biggest ethnic [Editor’s note: *Maria’s name at one point raised the boy on Medina says. She and her chilhydraulic circular platform while group residing in the housing dren have also made friends with has been changed in this article the host shouted “beer pa.” building, followed by Asian to protect her identity.] other tenants just by living in the

At Pilipino Workers Center housing...

Manila Bulletin. “Let us not forget why I will be on stage, and that is so I can get a bigger platform (the crown) to speak and do more for the children.” In an interview with Philstar, Parungao, who placed third runner-up when she represented the Philippines in the Miss Asia Pacific World pageant last year, said she entered the pageant because she believed it would open more opportunities for her and allow her voice to be heard. “[I] have an advocacy and I really want to focus on that. And I was looking for a better venue for that. A better venue for me to have a voice and what would be [better] than Miss World Philippines,” she said. The 5’7’’ beauty queen recently started a program, “Katuwang: A Fight Against Child Mortality,” which aims to eliminate child mortality by spreading awareness on health needs and issues facing children. She has so far organized volunteers in informing families about proper

Miss World Philippines 2015 Hillarie Danielle Parungao. Inquirer.net photo by Armin Adina

nutrition intake and carrying out regular physical tests of children, Manila Bulletin reported. Additionally, in September, she put together a fun run to raise funds for health programs for children. The first, second, third and fourth princesses of the pageant were Marita Cassandra Naidas, Mia Allyson Howell, Maria Vanessa Wright and Emma Mary Tiglao, respectively.

Willie Revillame ordered arrested over child abuse case

Willie Revillame

The boy at one point appeared to have been crying while doing the dance moves. The Department of Social Welfare and Development filed a complaint for violation of Republic Act 7610 or the Anti-Child Abuse Law before the Quezon City Prosecutors Office, which later on filed the case in court. “There is probable cause for the petitioner’s commission of a crime, his arrest and arraignment should now ensue so that this case may properly proceed to trial where the merits of both

parties’ evidence and allegations may be weighed,” the appeals court said adding that “the case had long been delayed because of the petitioner’s refusal to submit to the trial court’s jurisdiction and erroneous invocation of the Rules in his favor.” The appeals court said the lower court followed the rules in thoroughly evaluating the evidence and factual circumstances presented before him before finding probable cause to order Revillame’s arrest. Revillame filed a motion for reconsideration before the lower court but was denied on Oct. 4, 2013. The court said Revillame’s argument that he has no intention of violating the law should be best threshed out during trial. Concurring with the ruling were Associate Justices Normandie Pizarro and Samuel Gaerlan.

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features

Cuisine and cinema come together to celebrate LA Premiere of ‘Off The Menu: Asian America’

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 21, 2015

Jennylyn Mercado fine with prenup if future hubby wants one by MARINEL

R. CRUZ

“When you’re already married, whatever is yours is ACTRESS Jennylyn Mercado also his, and what’s his is also yours. But I would understand said she would say yes to signif he wants to protect [what] he ing a prenuptial agreement if worked hard for when he was her future fiancé would ask her still single. I won’t feel insulted. to do so. Inquirer.net

Jennylyn Mercado and Sam Milby enjoyed their New York trip/shoot.

I don’t see any problem in that.” the 28-year-old actress said. Jennylyn is promoting her latest movie “The Prenup,” opposite actor Sam Milby. Jun Robles Lana directs this romantic comedy that’s currently in theaters nationwide. Sam, on the other hand, would rather not sign a prenup. “Our characters’ love story happened so suddenly. They went to New York and were already engaged when they returned home. I understand that Sean’s (his character) parents are worried because they don’t know much about Wendy (Jennylyn) and her family so they demanded a prenup,” the actor explained. “Signing one is like you’re already expecting to break up eventually.” Together forever He added: “You promised each other that you’d be together forever so you shouldn’t be thinking of having a backup plan. If the girl would insist, and I really love her, I’d agree to it, but not after I find a way to get to know her family more so that they would trust me with her.” Lana said couples preparing for their weddings should watch the movie. “They may Continued on Page 5

LOS ANGELES—Visual Communications (VC) -- the nation’s premier Asian Pacific American media arts center -- has announced the LA premiere of “Off The Menu: Asian America.” The documentary film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Grace Lee (“American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs”), is an exploration of food in changing communities, families traditions and faiths. In the one-hour documentary, Lee travels from Houston, Texas to New York’s Lower East Side, from Oak Creek, Wisconsin to Oahu, Hawaii seeking stories that reflect an evolving Asian Pacific America and the role food plays in people’s lives. Visual Communications will present the film as a special screening event at the Japanese American National Museum on Sunday, Oct. 25. The evening will also feature

a post-screening conversation with representatives from the city’s vibrant culinary scene, including Chef Minh Phan of Porridge+Puffs, food writer Christine Chiao, scholar Karen Tongson, and Youa Yang of Yang Farms. Writer and sociologist Oliver Wang will moderate the discussion. “I’m thrilled that my film can bring together this kind of synergy, especially in a city like LA.” said director Grace Lee. “Angelenos, myself included, have a very inclusive palette, and are excited to discover and share new culinary experiences with each other. I’m looking forward to adding my film to that discussion.” Following the film screening and Q&A, audiences will enjoy a special appetizer & dessert reception, featuring recipes designed especially for “Off The Menu’s” LA premiere. This will be the chance

to taste never before seen recipes inspired by the film. “We’re honored to host the LA premiere of Grace’s new project.” said Francis Cullado, executive director of Visual Communications. “‘Off The Menu’ encapsulates how cultural pride as an Asian Pacific Islander can be a shared celebration here in America.” he adds. “I’m excited to launch her film in advance of her national broadcast, and am looking forward to the evening with diverse API leaders who are changing the culinary landscape.” “Off The Menu: Asian America” is a multimedia project between the Center for Asian American Media and KQED, and is funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. For more information on the film, please visit: www. caamedia.org/offthemenu. To purchase event tickets, please visit www.vconline.org.

Kapamilya sweetheart is ready for her comeback by DOLLY

ANN CARVAJAL Inquirer.net

I WAS pleasantly surprised to bump into Roxanne Guinoo at the mall. I didn’t notice her right away but it was so nice of her to greet me. I have fond memories of our Boracay Halloween trip a few years ago. She has been on hiatus to focus on her hubby (Elton Yap) and kids (Reine, 5, and Reilly, 3). But she does not look like a mother at all. Roxanne has not lost her charms. The Kapamilya sweetheart is all set for her comeback in the ABS-CBN teleserye “Walang Iwanan.” Roxanne is lovelier, the second time around. Here’s my tête-à-tête with Roxanne: What can the audience expect from you as you make a comeback? A different Roxanne. Since I am a mom and wife now, I have a deeper reservoir of emotions to tap for my acting. What limitations did your husband give you regarding projects? I have a very supportive husband. He and my in-laws are excited to watch my new show. In terms of limitations, it was

Roxanne Guinoo

my own choice not to do intimate scenes anymore because I love and respect my husband and kids so much. Even if some people look down on actors, I love this job. I want to be a good role model to my kids. How have marriage and motherhood changed you? My priorities have changed. I put my family first. I’m proud to say that I’m a hands-on mom. I believe that parents should always be involved in their kids’ lives, especially during the formative years. I refuse to let gadgets get in the way of our quality time as a family. Time goes by so fast, that’s why

I want to give them all my time and attention. Would you be willing to work with your ex, Jake Cuenca? If my home network decides to make a good project for us, why not? That wouldn’t be a problem. I am so thankful that ABS-CBN welcomed me back so I will accept any project they give me. I am not after fame or anything. I just want to continue pursuing my passion, which is acting. Beleaguered JM Speaking of second chances in the biz, too bad that JM de Guzman seems to have blown the opportunity to make a comeback. I really thought he got his groove back after the success of his movie with Angelica Panganiban, “That Thing Called Tadhana.” Unfortunately, he was not able to sustain it. JM has been replaced by Jericho Rosales in the movie “Walang Forever,” with Jennylyn Mercado. Hopefully, he can still get his act together before it’s too late. His charisma and talent are precious and shouldn’t be wasted.

Richard reluctant no more by BOY

ABUNDA Philstar.com

when it was offered to him, he didn’t hesitate. “They needed BEFORE his groundbreaking an actor to play the part of Carlo, and when it was offered role as Ser Chief in the dayto me, I said, why not, it’s sometime family drama “Be Careful thing new for me kasi medyo With My Heart,” people were mas ma-drama siya,” says referring to Richard Yap as a “reluctant actor” or “accidental Richard. “In the beginning, may konting apprehension siguactor.” He was a businessman, ro because it’s a role in a drama and despite having done My Binondo Girl (where he first be- series. Although my part is to came popular as “Papa Chen”), be a positive influence and to lift the character of Cecilia up, he wasn’t really into showbiz so it’s not really as heavily drayet. matic as others. That made it a But when “Be Careful With bit easier for me to adjust.” My Heart” became a phenomAlthough he didn’t feel too enal daytime hit, running for confident about doing drama in two years and four months, the beginning, Richard agreed it changed his perspective to do it because his planned on showbiz. He resigned his teleserye opposite Judy Ann corporate day job in 2012, Santos was shelved (due to put up his own business so his Juday’s pregnancy). It would hours would be more flexible provide him with something to and started to totally embrace do in the meantime while waitshowbiz. He began to think ing for his next project. “Yun of acting as his career, and of nga, dahil ma-drama, nag-isip himself as a product he has to din ako, but as working actors, sell to audiences. we go where we are required to Explains Richard: “I now go, so anything is okay.” see this as a business, and Since he started playing the also, I am a product, I have to role, Richard has learned how sell myself to the public who watches the shows. I’ve learned to make doing drama easier. to accept the fact that acting is “You just have to put yourself in the story. Dito, ina-analyze ko also a business, and as a prodkung saan siya galing,” he says, uct of that business, I have to referring to his character. constantly improve myself and The past few weeks have make myself more relevant.” made him realize that he has Part of doing that is by much to learn about the fine challenging himself to try art of television drama. “Siguro new things. Recently, Richard kung masyadong heavy di ko pa signed on to play a dramatic kaya, and it’s something I have role as Carlo, Cecilia’s (Vina Morales) kababata who crosses to work on. Especially in crying scenes, I have to really feel paths with her again 20 or so years after they first met, in the the scene. If I don’t believe na Kapamilya Gold drama “Nasaan kailangan sa story, parang hindi lumalabas.” Ka Nang Kailangan Kita.” The But at this point, Richard role as Carlo is more dramatic has definitely embraced beand heavier than anything he’s ing an actor. He is no longer done before; since becoma reluctant one. In fact, he ing an actor, Richard has done even has a title now: He’s mostly light teleseryes. It’s his known as the Daytime King. first time to go dramatic. “Actually, nung ‘Be Careful’ pa This is a switch for him, but yan, kasi si Jodi (Sta. Maria, his he says, it’s all part of learning co-star) was being called the how to re-invent himself. So

Richard Yap: Iʼm learning to reinvent myself.

Daytime Queen.” Ultimately though, says Richard, it really doesn’t matter. “It’s just a title, it doesn’t really affect who we are,” he says. “We are thankful that we are given titles, but it doesn’t mean we rest on our achievements. We have to work hard pa rin on what we are given.” Other things he would like to try in the future that are connected with show business is maybe producing (if this ever comes to pass, his top of mind choices to work with include actors like Coco Martin, Piolo Pascual, Dawn Zulueta, Bea Alonzo and Angel Locsin, “because these are the top stars that you always have in mind”) or working on the management side of a film or TV project. He is also looking forward to trying other roles. He has only one rule: He has to feel that it’s something he can do reasonably well. “Maybe it has to be something I’m capable of doing; if not, siyempre di ko tatanggapin. Mahirap if you can’t do what is required of you.” So far, Richard has proven that as far as acting goes, he can definitely do what is required of him. So far, so good — and he will just keep getting better and better.

MOONLIGHTING by MYLAH DE

LEON

I CAN believe that good is manifested from every experience that comes into our lives. Cancer is not a death sentence and I’ve been battling it for 10 years, six months and 29 days in the only way I know: living one day at a time. It was supposed to be a quick scene, a satisfying interlude that the HMO -- a prepaid health plan whose protocol legislated the length of time that a doctor would spend with the patient visit -- ruled. There was a soft knock on the door and the oncologist entered. She greeted me and then spent a few minutes sitting quietly and reading the lab results and x-rays I had brought with me. Then she leaned toward me and said: “Tell me, why you’ve come.” A fleeting moment can paralyze one’s capacity to think and feel. I looked into her face and saw genuine concern. I began telling her all the things I was experiencing — from the most commonplace and finally, to the strange feelings that often awaken me from my sleep. My voice shook, as I started telling her that through my illness, I discovered a basic truth. There are only two kinds of people in this whole world: those who are alive and those who are afraid. One of the attending doctors had ordered that I cannot be

afraid for the next four weeks, as I undergo more comprehensive tests. I had to think of a second response after fear. Can Carl Jung, founder of analytical psychology, give me an answer? Can you rethink when you’re filled with resentment, self-pity and a sense of victimhood? There is a word I have never found. She continued and I began to review my life. Looking at as many important relations and experiences as I could remember, I thought of the people I loved once, realizing that while I was certain that I had disappointed and even hurt people in the course of my life, I could not remember deliberately causing pain or harm to anyone, nor hating anyone or even telling a significant lie. I didn’t forget to mention that I had that special blessing of someone to love — life’s elegance that far exceeds anything we might device. All the sickness, pain, love, loss and triumph only deepened my capacity for compassion and loving kindness. I have even learned to forgive those that had mercilessly hurt me, even if it lowered my standards. Eventually I said: “But why doctor, do I suffer unseen and alone?” And then I just cried. My eyes stung with tears! I felt profoundly diminished, different and even ashamed, until my heart was a storm of loss. It took me nine or 10 minutes to tell all my whole story. The doctor said nothing to interrupt and just listened closely.

When I finished, she asked a few questions that showed me she had heard and fully understood. Then she reached for my hand and told me that she realized how hard things were. She validated my concerns. She reminded me that my lab studies had ruled out any truly life-threatening possibilities, my affliction assured and declared more clearly when they did a surgical solution, radiation and chemotherapy. In the meantime, back to my Heart Companion, as I relayed the events. He looked at me and smiled. “We will wait together,” he assured me. He had no diagnosis, unlike the others. What he offered me was his care, companionship and willingness to face the unknown with me. He assured me I had no expiration date. In those moments, he had lifted the loneliness that had separated me from others and my own strength, in some way that I did not understand then. This made all the difference. Someone else knew. Someone else cared. And because of this, I found out that I had the greater courage to deal with whatever was going to happen, even gratitude — until tomorrow comes. On the 30th, I will have a procedure and all will be in the Lord’s hands. The only sure thing about tomorrow is that it will arrive. And I’ll be alive to greet it. *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@ aol.com

Jennylyn Mercado fine with prenup if... From Page 4

learn a thing or two, especially on the tricky issue of signing a prenup.” The movie was partly shot in New York City. Sam shared that they visited scenic spots like Central Park, Times Square, the Meatpacking District and Staten Island. “We didn’t have much time to see the sights, but there was never a dull moment while working with Jen (her nickname). She is very giving and open as an actress.”

features

Until tomorrow comes

Jennylyn said she and Sam already knew that they had natural chemistry even while doing their first screen test. “We were already joking around, so you can just imagine how we were like while filming,” she recounted. “Sam knows how to take care of his leading lady. He is thoughtful and would always ask me what I wanted to eat whenever he bought food.” Sam said their weeklong trip to the Big Apple was “fun and memorable because Jen

is extremely easy to work with. She’s even nicer than I imagined. She makes me feel very comfortable.” As for Jennylyn, she admitted to feeling pressured since “The Prenup” came on the heels of her box-office hit, the rom-com “English Only, Please.” “I feel the pressure. If this movie doesn’t surpass the success of my previous film, I pray that it would at least match it,” she said.

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 21, 2015

MANGO MIX by MARTIN

JASON L. ITA-AS

JET lag: a bane to starting your journey right and ending it smoothly. Jet lag has existed since the dawn of plane travel. Is there no way to combat these annoyingly draining episodes? Fortunately, there are a few ways you can cancel the travel mood killer that is jet lag. Here we list down a few of them for you to try out the next time you’re planning on going on a journey: Food Love eating before your big trip? Watching your diet on travel days can do wonders for those prone to jet lag. AA protein-filled meal is the way to go if you want to beat that tired feeling from your flight. Try foods like tuna, eggs, cheese, and chicken breast. But if you’re willing to brush off the hunger, not eating any food is a great solution as well. Not eating before your trip for a duration of 16 hours can help reset your biological clock, making your travel woes a thing of the past. In-flight sleeping Don’t be afraid to spend

PALA CASINO 1/2H

How to avoid jet lag money on the soft, adjustable seats with a lot of room for you to stretch in, especially if you’re prone to jet lag. Having enough space to allow you to stretch will help simulate the sensation of having a nice, wide bed, making it easier to get some well needed rest. The more sleep you get, the less taxing the trip and the arrival will be on you. Seat position If sleeping isn’t an option, try relaxing more and maybe sneaking a quick nap or two while you’re at it. Your position in the plane can determine how relaxed you will be. A seat at the back of the plane can get jumpy and bumpy mid-flight so try to avoid it as much as you can. Also try to avoid the seats closest to the bathroom, as people will pass by you every now and then, disturbing you from properly resting on the trip. Drinks Water is definitely the only way to go when you’re feeling parched on a flight. Avoid drinks like alcohol, soda and acidic citrus juices. These drinks affect your digestion, frequency of bathroom use and more importantly, they can dehydrate you, which is one part of the equation for a nasty case of jet

lag. Avoid them at all costs and try to stick with good old H2O. Direction and sunlight The amount of sunlight you need and the direction you’re traveling can actually help with keeping the lag in check. Going East? Try to avoid the morning sun upon arrival. If you were planning to soak some warm rays of sunshine, do it in the afternoon. Westward travel is the total opposite. Make sure you bask in the light as much as you can. With this information at hand, you can now fly as far and as long as you can with the means to combat the pains of haggard feelings while on a flight. *** Mango Tours is a provider of quality, affordable and convenient travel services that include low-priced airline tickets, customized Philippine and International Tour Packages, Cruises, Land Transfers, Passport and Visa Concerns. It is the #1 producer of reliable travel services particularly when it comes to Philippine travel arrangements to the Filipino-American community in the US Mango Tours is able to provide its customers with a number of travel options at affordable rates because of its consolidator contracts with over 11 airlines. Book your travel bookings with Mango Tours by calling its 24/7 U.S. toll-free number at 1-866-2-MANILA (1-866-2-626452). Visit www. mangotours.com to know more about its latest promos and travel offers.* *Advertising Supplement

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 21, 2015

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